About us

Welcome to Topictics – Explaining Unique Latin Terms, your authoritative gateway into the world of classical Latin, thoughtfully translated and contextualized for modern English readers.

Our Mission

At Topictics, our mission is simple yet profound: to bridge the gap between ancient Latin expressions and today’s learners, writers, professionals, and lifelong curiosities. We explore unique, lesser-known Latin phrases—not just as linguistic artifacts, but as vivid connectors to history, philosophy, law, literature, science, and everyday discourse. Each entry is designed to enlighten, educate, and enrich your understanding of how these phrases have shaped and continue to shape our language, culture, and intellectual heritage.

Our Team

Chris Gober

Chris Gober is a nationally recognised attorney and founder of the Vantage Network, a group of firms—including Lex Politica—focused on political law, constitutional litigation, government investigations, and strategic counsel for high-profile clients such as America PAC and U.S. elected officials. A Harvard Law graduate and former legal advisor to major Republican committees, he blends legal expertise with political strategy to navigate complex regulatory and public policy challenges.

Claire Bishop

Claire Bishop is an experienced Latin educator with a strong record of teaching Latin I through AP Latin and NT Greek at the high school level, combining traditional and modern methods to make classical languages engaging and accessible. With dual MAs in Classics and World Language Teaching from the University of Kentucky, she also leads student trips to Europe and fosters immersive, culturally rich learning experiences.

Howard Lewinter

Howard Lewinter is a seasoned business strategist who has advised CEOs, presidents, and business owners for over 30 years, offering practical insights and objective guidance to increase success, profit, and clarity. Known for his personalised, no-boilerplate approach, he helps leaders solve complex challenges, reduce stress, and achieve lasting business growth.

Jack MacPhail

Jake MacPhail, PhD, is a Latin and Ancient Greek tutor with extensive university teaching experience and a doctorate in Classics from the University of Michigan. He combines deep philological expertise with a clear, student-focused approach to classical language instruction, supported by his parallel career in academic editing.

Junaid Khan

Junaid Khan is a linguist with a specialised degree in Classical Languages, focusing on Ancient Greek and Latin. He has 10+ years of experience tutoring students in reading, translation, and historical context of classical texts. According to our hierarchy system all the articles are published from Junaid Khan’s profile.

Katrina Budde

Katrina Budde is a veteran Latin teacher and tutor with over 20 years of experience teaching students from middle school to adulthood, blending traditional grammar-translation with modern, student-centred methods. Currently pursuing an MA in Latin at Kent State, she offers highly flexible, personalised instruction both online and in person.

Natalie Abbott

Natalie Abbott is a dedicated Latin teacher with over a decade of experience and a Master’s in Classics from Tufts University, known for combining linguistic precision, cultural insight, and creative methods to make Latin engaging for diverse learners.

Rafael Szmid

Rafael Szmid is a dual-qualified U.S. and Brazilian attorney at Reed Smith LLP, specialising in cross-border investigations, anti-corruption compliance, and regulatory matters across Latin America and global markets. Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, he advises multinational clients on FCPA, antitrust, and sanctions issues, drawing on over a decade of experience with enforcement agencies and international institutions.

Richard G. Spaulding Jr.

Richard G. Spaulding, Jr. is a veteran Latin and Greek teacher with over 20 years of experience designing and delivering individualized instruction for students with diverse learning styles. At The Woodhall School, he has built a comprehensive classics program and also leads the technical theatre department, combining academic rigour with hands-on mentorship.

Ubaid Qureshi

Ubaid Qureshi is a linguist with a specialised degree in Classical Languages, focusing on Latin and Ancient Greek, awarded in 2015 from the Institute of Classical Philology and Linguistics. With over a decade of teaching experience, he helps students master classical texts through clear, structured instruction rooted in historical and linguistic understanding.

What We Offer

  1. In-Depth Explanations
    Every Latin term on our site is accompanied by:
    • A literal translation
    • A contextual meaning and usage analysis
    • A discussion of origin, often tracing the phrase’s first appearances in classical sources
    • Real-world examples from historical texts, legal documents, literature, or contemporary use
    • A pronunciation guide, available in IPA and plain‑English phonetics
  2. Curated Categories
    To help you navigate Latin’s multifaceted legacy, content is thoughtfully grouped under:
    • Legal & Political Maxims: Covers legal, business, and political Latin terms like quid pro quo, sub judice, etc.
    • Mottos & Proverbs: Includes inspirational and literary expressions—concise phrases with enduring meaning.
    • Philosophy & Science: Encompasses philosophical, logical, medical, and scientific terms like a posteriori, per capita.
    • Everyday Abbreviations & Latinisms: Common terms and abbreviations used in modern English (e.g., i.e.,etc., alias).
    • Historical & Ecclesiastical Terms: Covers ecclesiastical phrases, dating conventions, liturgical expressions—ancient usages.

Why Choose Topictics?

  • Specialized Depth: Unlike general phrase lists, we dissect each term with scholarly care—exploring nuance, history, and usage.
  • Credibility & Trust: Our editorial process emphasizes accuracy, source verification, and transparent bibliographies.
  • Educational Utility: Whether you are a student, writer, historian, or lifelong learner, Topictics supports your intellectual curiosity with structured, accessible, and polished content.

Connect With Us

We invite educators, students, writers, and fellow enthusiasts to join us.
Suggest a term you’d like explored
Engage in discussion via comments or our email
Enrich our community—contribute examples, literary references, or modern uses

Contact us at support@topictics.com or via our social channels for suggestions, feedback, and collaborations.

Our Vision

As Topictics continues to grow, we aim to become the premier digital resource for Latin phraseology in English—honoring the past, informing the present, and inspiring future generations to explore the classical roots of our language. Thank you for embarking on this journey with us. In the words of Cicero: Per studium ad sapiéntiam (“Through study to wisdom”).

Topictics – Illuminating unique Latin terms, one phrase at a time.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on topictics.com, including articles, news, and other content, is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.

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