Modus Operandi

What Does Modus Operandi Mean?

Modus operandi (M.O.) is a Latin phrase that is used for a recurring process or a frequent practice by an individual or a group, usually associated with criminal behavior. However, the term can also be applied to a business practice, and not necessarily have a negative connotation.

Insuranceopedia Explains Modus Operandi

This term, often abbreviated as M.O., is popular in criminology. It is mostly used to establish a pattern by which a criminal or suspect commits a crime such as how a serial killer victimizes people of the same age group or gender.

It has also been used in business in a neutral sense to describe the standard way a company conducts its operations. However, it can still be used in a negative light, such as with the much-maligned Ponzi scheme.