modus vivendi

[ moh-duhs vi-ven-dee, -dahy ]

noun

, plural mo·di vi·ven·di [moh, -dee vi-, ven, -dee, moh, -dahy vi-, ven, -dahy].

1. manner of living; way of life; lifestyle.
2. a temporary arrangement between persons or parties pending a settlement of matters in debate.

modus vivendi

/ ˈməʊdəs vɪˈvɛndiː; -ˈvɛndaɪ /

noun

1. a working arrangement between conflicting interests; practical compromise

modus vivendi

1. A compromise between adversaries that allows them to get along temporarily: “During the separation, my parents adopted a modus vivendi that enabled them to tolerate each other.” From Latin , meaning a “method of living.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of modus vivendi¹

First recorded in 1875–80, modus vivendi is from Latin modus vivendī “mode of living”

Word History and Origins

Origin of modus vivendi¹

C19: from Latin: way of living

Example Sentences

Mr Deibert says that the gangs appear to have found a "modus vivendi" while they try to tear down the pillars of the state.

From BBC

Critics of Netanyahu say the prime minister has deliberately weakened the PA by allowing Israeli settlements on the West Bank to expand, even as he quietly maintained a modus vivendi with Hamas in Gaza.

From Los Angeles Times

Since that war, Hezbollah and Israel have maintained a respectful but wary modus vivendi, with the occasional tit-for-tat attack but little more.

From Los Angeles Times

“But absent a United States strategy in the region, people are trying to just find a workable modus vivendi.”

From Washington Post

“Not about every little issue in the relationship, but rather what are our principles? And can we somehow find a modus vivendi, not agreement, but some sort of mutual understanding?” he said.

From Washington Times