modus operandi

A unique and habitual method of doing something. From Latin, literally "mode of operation." Used especially in reference to criminal behavior. OK, this guy's modus operandi is breaking into houses completely at random and not taking anything. So then what's his motive? Most serial killers have a modus operandi of some sort. If we can determine that, then we may be able to stop this maniac.

See also:

creature of habit
a creature of habit
literally
rub (one) up the wrong way
rub somebody up the wrong way
rub someone up the wrong way
audi alteram partem
stroke (one) the wrong way
stroke someone the wrong way
break (one) of (something)

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