The phrase "caveat emptor" is Latin for "let the buyer beware." Its origins can be traced back to Roman law, where it underscored the principle that the buyer is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of goods before making a purchase. This concept has been integral in commercial transactions, emphasizing that buyers should exercise caution and due diligence.
The phrase has been widely adopted in various legal and business contexts. It reflects the notion that the buyer assumes the risk in a transaction, particularly in situations where there is an imbalance of information between the buyer and seller. While the principle remains relevant today, consumer protection laws in many jurisdictions have evolved to provide additional safeguards for buyers, somewhat diminishing the absolute nature of caveat emptor in modern commerce.