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NeCede's

Maxim 7.2.12

Fraud lies hidden in general expressions.

Fraus latet in generalibus.

Source: Bouvier's Law Dictionary Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable

Explanation

Vague and sweeping language is the natural refuge of the deceiver; the law demands specificity precisely because generality conceals the fraud.

Where this applies

  • The contract uses deliberately vague language that could mean anything.
  • A government official gave a sweeping general answer to avoid giving specific commitments.

Legal domains

equityinterpretation

Cite this maxim

NeCede Max. 7.2.12 — Fraud lies hidden in general expressions. — Bouvier's Law Dictionary (Fraus latet in generalibus.)

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