Skip to content
NeCede's

Maxim 10.2.43

There is no prolixity where there is nothing that can be omitted.

Source: Vaugh. 138; Weisman, 104y Difficulty 3/5 — Intermediate

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) A writing is not prolix merely because it is long — if nothing in it can be omitted without loss of meaning, every word is necessary and the length is justified.

Where this applies

  • A patent application runs fifty pages, and the examiner complains it's too long — but every paragraph describes a distinct claim element that cannot be removed without losing protection.
  • A contract between two companies is forty pages long, and one side argues it should be shorter — but the other side shows that every clause addresses a unique risk, and none can be dropped.
  • A witness gives a detailed two-hour deposition, and opposing counsel objects to the length, but every answer addresses a separate factual question that matters to the case.

Legal domains

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 10.2.43 — There is no prolixity where there is nothing that can be omitted. — Vaugh. 138; Weisman, 104y

Found an error? Suggest a correction →