A poisonous gloss is one which corrupts the substance of the text.

Explanation

An interpretation that twists a law's plain meaning to serve corrupt purposes destroys the law itself — the corruption of the text is worse than ignoring it entirely.

Where this applies

• A legal commentator is twisting the plain meaning of a statute to justify a government overreach.
• An attorney general reinterpreted a clear constitutional provision to expand government power.

See also

• 7.3.1 That which is bad in its beginning does not improve by lapse of time.
• 10.1.1 Liberal constructions of written instruments are to be made, on account of the simplicity of the common people, so that the thing may have effect rather than perish; and words should serve the intention, not the intention the words.