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nolens volens

/ˈnoʊlɛnz ˈvoʊlɛnz/
/ˈnoʊlɛnz ˈwoʊlɛnz/
IPA guide

Nolens volens is a Latin phrase used to describe a situation where something is going to happen whether you like it or not. Your personal preference or consent is irrelevant.

Nolens volens translates literally to "being unwilling, being willing." In simplest terms, it suggests that something will happen "whether one likes it, or not." Paying taxes is a situation in which nolens volens applies — you have to do it, whether you like it or not. The weather is going to happen nolens volens, as you can't change the weather, and growing older is another situation where nolens volens applies. Some things are out of our control, nolens volens.

Definitions of nolens volens
  1. noun
    whether it is wanted or not; willingly or unwillingly
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