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NeCede's

Maxim 10.2.16

A general saying is to be interpreted generally; general words are to be understood generally.

Generale dictum generaliter est interpretandum; generalia verba sunt generaliter intelligenda.

Source: 3 Inst. 76; Jackson; Weisman, 43c Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational

Explanation

General language is not to be artificially narrowed; where the legislature speaks broadly, its words are given their full natural reach.

Where this applies

  • The law speaks in general terms and shouldn't be artificially narrowed.
  • A broad statement in the statute should be given its full natural meaning.
  • They're trying to limit general language that was clearly meant to be broad.

Legal domains

contractinterpretation

See also

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 10.2.16 — A general saying is to be interpreted generally; general words are to be understood generally. — 3 Inst. 76; Jackson; Weisman, 43c (Generale dictum generaliter est interpretandum; generalia verba sunt generaliter intelligenda.)

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