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About this quote

What does it mean?
Words shape laws and constitutions, so understanding their meaning is fundamental to society.
In plain terms
Words build laws, so we must understand them well.
What can you take from it?
Clear understanding of language is vital for law.

Where it applies

  • legislation
  • contract drafting
  • constitutional law

Putting it to work

  • define terms clearly
  • study legal text
  • avoid ambiguity

Questions to consider

  • How do words shape our laws?
  • Why does semantics matter in law?

Another view

Meanings can change over time, making fixed interpretations difficult.

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