Latin quote · Law

Vi et armis

“By force and arms.”

Legal phrase

Translation

What does “Vi et armis” mean?

Vi et armis translates as “By force and arms.”

In old common law, a wrong done with direct force, such as trespass. More broadly, getting something by force rather than consent.

Origin

The story behind it

The phrase was a standard formula in English common-law pleadings for trespass committed with force.

When to use it

How to use “Vi et armis”

A precise phrase for a legal history essay or a tort law class.

Latin
Vi et armis
English
By force and arms.
Source
Legal phrase
Era
Legal Latin
Theme
Law

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