Standard Latin, often referred to as Classical Latin, is the form of the Latin language that was used in formal writing and speech during the late Roman Republic and the Roman Empire. It is characterized by its grammar, vocabulary, and style, which were standardized by writers such as Cicero and Virgil. This version of Latin is often studied in academic settings and is the basis for many modern languages. In contrast to Vulgar Latin, which was the colloquial form spoken by the common people, Standard Latin is more structured and follows strict grammatical rules. It has influenced many fields, including law, science, and religion, and remains important in the study of Romance languages and historical texts.