non liquet

[ non lahy-kwit ]

adjective

, Law.

1. (of evidence, a cause, etc.) not clear or evident.

non liquet

/ ˈnɒn ˈlaɪkwɪt /

adjective

1. Roman law (of a cause, evidence, etc) not clear

Word History and Origins

Origin of non liquet¹

First recorded in 1650–60, non liquet is from Latin nōn liquet “it is not clear”

Word History and Origins

Origin of non liquet¹

C17: Latin, literally: it is not clear

Example Sentences

The object of the paper appears to be to confuse the issues with a view to a verdict of non liquet.

From Project Gutenberg

The final result as regards most of the points treated is a non liquet.

From Project Gutenberg

Notwithstanding the general inclination towards Greek, this must at present be left in doubt, and a verdict of 'non liquet' given.

From Project Gutenberg

Were it expressed in words, it would simply amount to a verdict of "non liquet."

From Project Gutenberg

The result of a doubtful (non liquet) verdict was a retrial of the case at some future time.

From Project Gutenberg