de jure

Part of Speech

Latin Phrase (Adverb, Adjective)

Pronunciation

Classical Latin: /deː ˈjuː.re/

Ecclesiastical Latin: /de ˈju.re/

English Pronunciation: /ˌdeɪ ˈdʒʊr.i/, /ˌdiː ˈdʒʊr.eɪ/

Definitions

• By law; legally recognized, regardless of whether it exists in reality.
• According to rightful entitlement or claim, even if not exercised in practice.

Usage Examples

• "The country is de jure independent, but in reality, it remains under foreign influence."
• "The government is de jure democratic, but many critics argue that it functions de facto as an autocracy."

Etymology

From Latin: de ("from, concerning") and jure ("law, right"), derived from jus ("law, justice"). The phrase has been used in legal and political contexts since ancient Rome.

Synonyms

• Legally
• Rightfully
• By law

Antonyms

• De facto
• Illegally
• Unofficially

Translations

Major Global Languages

Indian Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• Italy: /de ˈju.re/
• Spain: /de ˈxu.re/
• France: /də ʒy.ʁe/

Historical Usage

The phrase de jure has been widely used in legal, governmental, and philosophical texts since the Roman Republic. It remains a fundamental term in modern law and political science.

Cultural Nuances

De jure is often contrasted with de facto, highlighting the gap between legal recognition and practical reality. This distinction plays a crucial role in law, governance, and social justice debates.

More Information

The term is frequently encountered in constitutional law, international relations, and governance. Many historical disputes center around whether a state or government exists de jure or merely de facto, impacting diplomatic recognition and legal authority.