Looking for a quote

[Allen Sparksy]

I need help finding a Latin phrase. I was told that there is a phrase that sums up the following point: when you are faced with two versions of a text, the less probable version is probably the correct one, since the assumption is that scribes “correct” from the less probable to the more probable.

 

[Matthaeus]

I think you're looking for lectio difficilior.

 

[Imber Ranae]

It's not 'the less probable' so much as 'the less straightforward/more difficult'.

 

[Abbatiſſæ Scriptor]

I was exposed to that idea while studying New Testament Greek, but I always took it cum grano salis

 

[cinefactus]

I have had this taught to me, but from a position of ignorance, can I ask if there are any studies supporting this theory?

We could, for example, argue that a scribe would alter to the form which seems closer to his mother tongue.

 

[Aurifex]

I don't think we need to do any studies. The idea of lectio difficilior potior might be reasonable in specific cases, but as a working rule common sense tells you it's flawed.