pro re nata

[ proh re nah-tah; English proh ree ney-tuh, rey ]

adverb

, Latin.

1. for an unforeseen need or contingency.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pro re nata¹

Literally, “for a thing born”

Example Sentences

President of the Royal Institute of British Architects. p.r.n., pro re nata=For special business arising.

From Project Gutenberg

But it suits the Japanese admirably: they hop out at every other station—pro re nata—and occasionally get left behind.

From Project Gutenberg

And if any exigent fall out, that the Presbyterie of Edinburgh give advertisement for an Assembly pro re nata.

From Project Gutenberg

And it is much to Byron's credit that, in speaking of the deceased Cambridge poet, he forgot his own argument and its exigencies, and proved himself only a paradoxer pro re nata.

From Project Gutenberg

Being now well read as well as travelled, we was soon pro re nata with the best society in Rosa, and was invited out to the most dressed-up and high-toned entertainments.

From Project Gutenberg