In contracts, the interpretation is to be liberal; in wills, more liberal; in restitutions, most liberal.

Explanation

The degree of liberality in construction increases with the character of the instrument — contracts are read fairly, wills with greater indulgence to the testator's intent, and acts of restoration with the greatest favor toward making the right whole.

Where this applies

• My will should be read generously to carry out what I actually intended.
• A contract should be interpreted fairly but a will gets even more favorable treatment.
• The court should give the most liberal reading to acts of restoration and restitution.

See also

• 10.1.1 Liberal constructions of written instruments are to be made, on account of the simplicity of the common people, so that the thing may have effect rather than perish; and words should serve the intention, not the intention the words.
• 10.1.5 Interpretation is always to be made so that what is absurd and inconvenient may be avoided.