de bene esse

American  

[di bee-nee es-ee, dee, dey bey-ney es-ey] / dɪ ˈbi ni ˈɛs i, di, deɪ ˈbeɪ neɪ ˈɛs eɪ /

adverb

Law.

1. of validity for the time being but subject to objection or nullification at a later date; provisionally.

   to take evidence de bene esse to ensure against its loss.

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Etymology

Origin of de bene esse

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Medieval Latin: dē bene esse, literally, “of well-being”

Example Sentences

If he has answered, it may go in, de bene esse.

From Report of the Proceedings at the Examination of Charles G. Davis, Esq., on the Charge of Aiding and Abetting in the Rescue of a Fugitive Slave Held in Boston, in February, 1851. by Various

Bourqueney has signed the document de bene esse; this is his wisest and most dignified course.

From The Greville Memoirs (Second Part) A Journal of the Reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1852 (Volume 1 of 3) by Greville, Charles

I receive it de bene esse; to give such weight to it as I shall think proper.

From Report of the Proceedings at the Examination of Charles G. Davis, Esq., on the Charge of Aiding and Abetting in the Rescue of a Fugitive Slave Held in Boston, in February, 1851. by Various