That is uselessly done by more words which may be done by fewer.

Explanation

Brevity is preferred in legal instruments; unnecessary verbiage adds nothing and may obscure the operative terms.

Where this applies

• The contract uses way more words than necessary to say something simple.
• Brevity is better — why use fifty words when ten will do.
• Unnecessary verbiage in legal documents just creates confusion.

See also

• 10.2.5 Words ought to be understood with effect, so that the thing may be preserved rather than destroyed.
• 10.2.6 Words ought to have some operation.