Legal Definitions - definitio

In civil law, "definitio" refers to a definition or an explanation of something. It can also signify the establishment of a general rule or, more literally, a boundary.

Definitio

In civil law, definitio is a Latin term that can refer to several distinct concepts:

• An explanation or definition of a concept: This meaning refers to a clear and precise articulation of what something is, often providing a detailed understanding of its components or implications.
• Example: A legal treatise provides a thorough explanation of "proximate cause" in tort law, detailing the various tests and judicial interpretations used to determine if a defendant's actions directly led to a plaintiff's injury. This comprehensive explanation serves as a definitio, clarifying a complex legal principle for practitioners and students.
• The establishment of a general rule or principle: This refers to the creation of a guiding standard, regulation, or legal precedent that applies broadly to similar situations.
• Example: A legislative body passes a new statute requiring all public companies to disclose executive compensation in a standardized format. This new law establishes a general rule for corporate transparency, acting as a definitio for how such information must be presented going forward.
• A boundary or limit: In this context, definitio denotes a clear demarcation, a defined perimeter, or the extent of something.
• Example: A zoning ordinance specifies the exact maximum height for buildings constructed in a particular residential district, along with setback requirements from property lines. These precise measurements and restrictions set the definitio, or boundaries, for development within that zone.