No man can transfer to another a greater right than he himself has.

Explanation

This is the universal limit on all transfers — a grantor cannot convey what he does not own, whether it be property, power, or privilege.

Where this applies

• The city granted a permit for someone to build on land the city doesn't own.
• A tenant sublet my apartment to someone else — they don't have the right to do that.

See also

• 2.2.2 The derivative power cannot be greater than the original from which it is derived.
• 5.1.9 No one gives what he does not have.