Which Latin term means 'to speak the truth'?

• A. Habeas corpus
• B. Voir dire
• C. Corpus delicti
• D. Actus reus

Answer: (B)

This question tests understanding of Latin phrases used in the criminal justice system and their literal meanings. The phrase that literally means “to speak the truth” is the one used during jury selection to determine whether prospective jurors can be honest and fair. That process is voir dire, the term that denotes exposing truthfulness during questioning of potential jurors.

For context, habeas corpus translates to “you shall have the body” and deals with bringing a detained person before a court; corpus delicti means “body of the crime,” referring to the facts proving that a crime occurred; actus reus translates as “guilty act,” the actual physical act or conduct that constitutes the crime.