The word dictum is frequently used in philosophy, but also in economics, political science, and other fields. Almost any condensed piece of wisdomThe perfect is the enemy of the good, Buy low, sell high, All politics is local, etc. can be called a dictum. In the law, judges may often add to a written opinion an obiter dictum, or statement made in passing a strong statement that isn't directly relevant to the case being decided. If they're well thought out and eloquent, obiter dicta may be referred to by later judges and lawyers for years afterward.