Lately, journalists and politicians have been throwing around the phrase “quid pro quo” with gusto. As in, Energy Secretary Rick Perry stating that he was “extremely comfortable” that there wasn’t any “quid pro quo” regarding President Trump’s interactions with officials in Ukraine.
I’m very interested in this news story, but I kept getting distracted by the phrase “quid pro quo”. It’s one of those terms I think I should know but honestly don’t. Enter Merriam-Webster.
The expression quid pro quo \ ˌkwid-ˌprō-ˈkwō \ comes from New Latin and means “something for something”. The phrase was first used way back in the 16th century to describe something obtained from an apothecary, and often referred to exchanging one medicine for another. The expression quickly expanded to describe equal exchanges of all types. Today, it is frequently used in legal situations.
So, regarding President Trump, everyone is curious if Trump orchestrated a quid pro quo with Ukraine – an equal exchange of information (about the Biden family) for financial support to the Ukranian government.
Hopefully, we will find out soon.
If you like to learn new words and the origins of their meanings, visit the Wondrous Words Wednesday meme at Bermuda Onion. Each Wednesday, bloggers share new words they’ve learned.
What’s a phrase you’ve heard lately that stumps you? Maybe the Word Nerd can help!
Thanks for getting nerdy with me!
I think the term quid pro quo is the source of the British slang word for the £ Sterling, a quid. I guess it’s because the pound is exchangeable for something equivalent.
Thank you! Another interesting word tid bit.