favorite dictum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "favorite dictum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a preferred saying or principle that one finds particularly meaningful or guiding. Example: "My favorite dictum is 'Actions speak louder than words,' as it reminds me to prioritize doing over just talking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I recalled a favorite dictum of his: man can be destroyed, but not defeated.

The New York Times

To paraphrase a favorite dictum of Edward I. Koch, there is nothing more rewarding than public service done well and honestly.

The New York Times

Mamet is fortified in his truculence by the lesson of his poker playing ("If you're smarter than the other guy, be smarter than the other guy") and by a favorite dictum of the English critic William Hazlitt, which he paraphrases as "Don't try to suck up or even be nice to your intellectual inferiors.

The New Yorker

The architecture school's faculty told her that "we do not wish to encourage les jeunes filles to become professionals". "Julia's favorite dictum was: 'The buildings speak, I do not speak,' " UCLA professor Diane Favro told the 1987 UCLA Julia Morgan Colloquium on women in architecture.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The trilogy also inspires what may be my favorite Adler dictum: "If you do a Greek play, play marble, not cement!" She provides invaluable insights on the forms of escapism in "Long Day's Journey Into Night," O'Neill's autobiographical masterwork.

The New York Times - Books

On "Finish Line D'jayz," the refrain "motherfuck your favorite DJ" repeats over and over again, turning into a menacing dictum against the competitiveness and in-fighting among Chicago's growing crop of footwork producers.

Vice

His dictum was: "Everybody is talented".

Encyclopedia Britannica

That old dictum, write what you know?

The New York Times - Books

Pogo's dictum applies here, too.

The New York Times

His dictum is our guide.

The Guardian - Opinion

Fortunately, that dictum will be ignored.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the formality of the setting when using "favorite dictum". While acceptable in various contexts, it may be more suitable for reflective or analytical writing than highly formal documents.

Common error

Avoid using "favorite dictum" too frequently in academic or professional writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or less objective. Use synonyms to vary your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "favorite dictum" functions as a noun phrase, where "favorite" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "dictum". It identifies a specific dictum that holds particular significance or preference for an individual. As shown in examples provided by Ludwig, it highlights a guiding principle or a saying someone values.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "favorite dictum" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that refers to a preferred saying or principle. While not highly frequent, its usage is consistent in news media and academic contexts. Ludwig AI affirms its acceptability, noting its role in expressing personal values and guiding philosophies. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "preferred saying" or "cherished maxim". When using "favorite dictum", ensure the dictum itself is clear and relevant to the context, and be mindful of overuse in highly formal settings. Overall, this phrase offers a nuanced way to highlight the influence of a particular saying on one's life or work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preferred saying

Focuses on the act of verbal expression that is preferred.

cherished maxim

Emphasizes the value and importance attached to the maxim.

favored principle

Highlights the guiding nature and personal preference for a rule or belief.

beloved adage

Conveys a sense of affection and tradition associated with the saying.

treasured motto

Implies that the motto is highly valued and serves as a personal guide.

prized precept

Highlights the importance and value placed on a particular rule or guideline.

personal mantra

Suggests a saying that is repeated often as a personal affirmation.

go-to saying

Indicates a saying that is frequently used or relied upon.

pet phrase

Describes a phrase that is used repeatedly and fondly.

favorite expression

A more general term referring to a preferred way of saying something.

FAQs

What does "favorite dictum" mean?

A "favorite dictum" is a preferred saying or principle that someone finds particularly meaningful or guiding. It's a statement that encapsulates a belief or philosophy that the person values.

How can I use "favorite dictum" in a sentence?

You might say, "My "favorite dictum" is 'Actions speak louder than words,' as it reminds me to prioritize doing over just talking." Or, "Her "favorite dictum" was 'Always be kind,' which guided her interactions with everyone she met."

What are some alternatives to "favorite dictum"?

You can use alternatives like "preferred saying", "cherished maxim", or "favored principle" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "favorite dictum" a formal or informal expression?

While "favorite dictum" is acceptable in both formal and informal contexts, it tends to be more common in reflective or analytical writing. For very formal documents, consider using a more neutral term like "guiding principle" or "preferred saying".