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NeCede's

Maxim 10.1.7

Words are to be taken according to the subject matter.

Verba accipienda sunt secundum subjectam materiam.

Source: 6 Co. 6; Bacon, Max. reg. 3; Broom, Max. 573; 2 Bl. Comm. 380; Weisman, 22cc Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

The same word may bear different meanings in different instruments; the subject matter of the instrument — not the dictionary alone — governs which meaning is intended.

Where this applies

  • The same word means different things in different types of documents.
  • They're applying a general dictionary definition when the subject matter calls for a specific meaning.
  • The context of the document determines what the words mean, not just a dictionary.

Legal domains

interpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 10.1.7 — Words are to be taken according to the subject matter. — 6 Co. 6; Bacon, Max. reg. 3; Broom, Max. 573; 2 Bl. Comm. 380; Weisman, 22cc (Verba accipienda sunt secundum subjectam materiam.)

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