The useful is not vitiated by the useless.

Explanation

Surplus or unnecessary language in a deed, statute, or pleading does not destroy the operative and valid portions — the good survives the waste.

Where this applies

• There's unnecessary language in the document but the important parts are still valid.
• Surplus words don't destroy the operative provisions.
• The useful survives the useless — good provisions aren't ruined by accompanying waste.

See also

• 11.2.5 Bad grammar does not vitiate a deed.
• 11.3.6 Surplusage does no harm.