The purpose of a description is to afford the means to identify the subject matter.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) The function of a description in a deed, will, or other instrument is to provide sufficient means to identify the subject matter with certainty, so that the parties and courts can know exactly what is conveyed.

Where this applies

• A deed describes the land being sold as "the parcel bounded by Oak Street to the north and the river to the south" — the description's job is to let anyone identify exactly which piece of land is changing hands.
• A will says "my gold pocket watch that belonged to my grandfather" — the description exists to distinguish that specific watch from every other item in the estate.
• A bill of sale identifies goods as "200 bushels of winter wheat currently stored in Bin 7 at the Coopersville elevator" — the purpose is to pinpoint exactly which wheat is being sold.