Latin Proverbs, Mottoes, Phrases, and Words: Group A

For the sake of argument.

An argument or proof of appeal.

This term is not a disagreement, but a proof, especially one used to illuminate or to clarify.

A proof derived from an autority.

An appeal based on the hardship or inconvenience involved.

An appeal pointing out the illogical points of view as presented by an opponent; rather than by establishing the merits of one's own position: "Argument to absurdity, or statements the contents of which are not reasonable or that are considered to be ridiculously foolish."

An appeal based primarily on arousing popular passions.

An appeal based on money or the promise of profit.

A crumena was a leather pouch that held money and was secured by a strap around a Roman's neck; therefore, the meaning of argumentum ad crumenam was an apeal to the pocketbook or an argument based on monetary considerations.

An argument against the man.

Argumentum ad hominem is an effective rhetorical tactic, appealing to feelings rather than to intellect, or directed against an opponent's character rather than the subject under discussion. Argumentum ad hominem is considered a logical fallacy, in that such an argument fails to prove a point by failing to address it. In "practical politics" and in many a court of law, argumentum ad hominem is considered persuasive.

The same name is given to an argument in which one employs an opponent's words or actions. It has been said that an illustration of the argumentum ad hominem is found in the technique of the defense lawyer who, when at a loss for legitimate arguments, attacks the attorney for the plaintiff, but it is said that this is not the current usage of this phrase in the United States.

An argument based on an adversary's ignorance of facts in a controversy.

An appeal to envy, jealousy, ill will, or another undesirable human trait.

1. Translation: "An argument appealing to judgment."
2. Etymology: from Classical Latin argumentum, "argument"; and ad judicium, "to entreat the common judgement of mankind".

An appeal to pity.

An argument appealing to the interests of the populace.

A relevant argument.

An argument concerning the point under discussion.

An appeal to an opponent's sense of decency.

An argument concerning the point under discussion.