Legal Definitions - applicando singula singulis

Applicando singula singulis is a Latin legal phrase that translates to "by applying each to each" or "to apply each condition to its corresponding part."

This principle guides the interpretation of legal documents, such as contracts, statutes, or wills, that contain multiple provisions, conditions, or descriptions. It ensures that each specific requirement, item, or action mentioned in the document is precisely matched and assigned to its intended subject, party, or circumstance. The goal is to prevent misapplication or confusion by ensuring a clear, one-to-one correspondence between elements.

Here are some examples illustrating how applicando singula singulis might be applied:

• In a Construction Contract: Imagine a contract for a building project that states, "The plumber shall install all water lines, and the electrician shall connect all power outlets." Applicando singula singulis ensures that the plumber is solely responsible for the water lines and the electrician for the power outlets. It prevents any ambiguity where, for instance, the electrician might be mistakenly expected to install water lines, or vice versa, by clearly assigning each specific task to its designated professional.
• In a Last Will and Testament: Consider a will that declares, "I bequeath my antique grandfather clock to my grandson, David, and my collection of rare books to my granddaughter, Emily." This principle dictates that the grandfather clock is specifically given to David, and the rare books are specifically given to Emily. It prevents any interpretation where David might claim the books or Emily the clock, ensuring each gift is applied precisely to its intended beneficiary.
• In a Municipal Ordinance: A local law might state, "Bicycles must yield to pedestrians on shared paths, and motor vehicles must stop at all red lights." Applicando singula singulis clarifies that the yielding rule applies specifically to bicycles interacting with pedestrians, and the stopping rule applies specifically to motor vehicles at red lights. It means a bicycle is not required to stop at a red light (unless it's also a motor vehicle), and a motor vehicle doesn't need to yield to pedestrians on a shared path in the same way a bicycle does, as each rule applies to its distinct subject and context.