Definition

A term used in law to describe something that becomes effective at a certain time unless there is a reason to change or cancel it.

Example

The court issued a decree nisi, which will take effect in thirty days unless challenged.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new court ruling?

Yeah, I heard it's a decree nisi that will take effect soon.

That's interesting! What does that mean for the people involved?

It means they need to show a reason to stop it from happening.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'nisi' originates from Latin, meaning 'unless' or 'if not'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nisi' as a way to express a condition — it means 'unless' or 'if not', helping you remember that it sets a condition for something to happen.

Visually Confused Words