summa theologica: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal/Academic
Quick answer
What does “summa theologica” mean?
A comprehensive medieval philosophical and theological treatise written by Thomas Aquinas.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A comprehensive medieval philosophical and theological treatise written by Thomas Aquinas.
Any systematic, comprehensive work of theology that attempts to summarize and reconcile Christian doctrine through philosophical reasoning; by extension, a monumental and exhaustive treatise on any subject.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: 'Summa Theologica' is standard in both. Pronunciation differs slightly (see IPA).
Connotations
In UK academic contexts, often associated with classical education and history of philosophy; in US contexts, sometimes more closely linked to Catholic university curricula.
Frequency
Equally rare in general discourse; appears almost exclusively in academic theological, philosophical, or historical contexts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “summa theologica” in a Sentence
N of N (the Summa Theologica of Aquinas)N by N (Summa Theologica by Thomas Aquinas)N on N (a summa theologica on moral philosophy)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “summa theologica” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His approach was almost Summa-Theologica in its thoroughness.
American English
- She produced a summa-theologica analysis of the policy's history.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Core term in medieval philosophy, theology, intellectual history. Appears in titles, citations, and discussions of scholasticism.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Specific reference in Catholic theology, Thomistic studies, history of philosophy.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “summa theologica”
- Mispronouncing as 'summa theo-LO-gica'; misspelling as 'Summa Theologia' without the 'c'; using lowercase incorrectly for the specific work.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they refer to the same work by Thomas Aquinas. 'Summa Theologiae' is an alternate Latin title, while 'Summa Theologica' is a common Anglicised form.
Yes, when referring specifically to Aquinas's work, it is a proper noun and should be capitalised: 'Summa Theologica'. When used generically, lowercase is possible: 'a summa theologica of modern physics'.
Almost exclusively in academic contexts: university courses in medieval history, philosophy, or theology; scholarly books and articles; and discussions within Catholic intellectual circles.
No, it is a highly specialised term. The average native speaker is unlikely to know it unless they have studied relevant subjects.
A comprehensive medieval philosophical and theological treatise written by Thomas Aquinas.
Summa theologica is usually formal/academic in register.
Summa theologica: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsʊmə θiːəˈlɒdʒɪkə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsʊmə ˌθiəˈlɑdʒɪkə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A veritable summa theologica (used figuratively to describe an exhaustive work)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a SUMMAry of THEOlogy that's LOGICAL—Summa Theologica.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SUMMA THEOLOGICA IS AN ARCHITECTURAL STRUCTURE (with foundations, pillars, and systematic organisation).
Practice
Quiz
What is the 'Summa Theologica' primarily?