Sensu

Sensu is a Latin term used in various scientific contexts, including biology, taxonomy, and medicine. It is used to specify the context in which a certain term is being used. For example, in taxonomy, a species may be defined "sensu stricto" (in the strict sense) or "sensu lato" (in the broad sense). In medicine, it may be used to specify the context of a disease or condition.

Definition

The term "sensu" is derived from the Latin word for "sense" or "meaning". In scientific contexts, it is used to clarify the context or interpretation of a term. For example, in taxonomy, a species may be defined "sensu stricto" (in the strict sense) or "sensu lato" (in the broad sense). This can be important in cases where there is ambiguity or disagreement about the definition of a species.

In medicine, "sensu" may be used to specify the context of a disease or condition. For example, "diabetes mellitus sensu stricto" would refer to the specific condition of diabetes mellitus, as opposed to "diabetes mellitus sensu lato", which might include related conditions or symptoms.

Usage in Biology

In biology, "sensu" is often used in the context of species definitions. For example, a species may be defined "sensu stricto" (in the strict sense) or "sensu lato" (in the broad sense). This can be important in cases where there is ambiguity or disagreement about the definition of a species.

"Sensu stricto" refers to the narrowest possible definition of a species, typically including only the "type specimen" and individuals that are very similar. "Sensu lato", on the other hand, refers to a broader definition that may include related subspecies or varieties.

Usage in Medicine

In medicine, "sensu" is used to specify the context of a disease or condition. For example, "diabetes mellitus sensu stricto" would refer to the specific condition of diabetes mellitus, as opposed to "diabetes mellitus sensu lato", which might include related conditions or symptoms.

This can be important in cases where there is ambiguity or disagreement about the definition of a disease or condition. For example, the term "cancer" can refer to a wide range of conditions, and specifying "cancer sensu stricto" or "cancer sensu lato" can help to clarify the context.

See Also

• Latin in scientific classification
• Scientific terminology
• Medical terminology