pro tanto

Definition

Latin for 'for so much' or 'to that extent,' used to describe partial payment or credit. When you can't pay everything, pro tanto means you paid what you could.

Example Usage

The court ordered a pro tanto reduction of the judgment to account for the settlement with the co-defendant.

Origin

Latin 'pro tanto,' meaning 'for so much'

Fun Fact

Pro tanto payments in eminent domain cases allow the government to take your property immediately while still arguing about the final price.

Source: Contract law and settlement procedures

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