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Simple English definitions for legal terms
eiusdem generis
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A quick definition of eiusdem generis:
Term: Eiusdem Generis
Definition: Eiusdem Generis is a rule that helps interpret the meaning of a general word or phrase that follows a list of specific items. It means that the general word or phrase will only include things that are of the same type or class as those listed. For example, if a list includes horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, and goats, and then says "or any other farm animal," the general language would only include four-legged, hoofed mammals typically found on farms, and not chickens or other animals that are not of the same type. This rule is also called the ejusdem generis rule or Lord Tenterden's rule.
Related terms: Expressio Unius Est Exclusio Alterius, Noscitur a Sociis, Rule of Rank
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Eiusdem generis is a Latin term that means "of the same kind or class." It is a rule of interpretation that when a general word or phrase follows a list of specifics, the general word or phrase will be interpreted to include only items of the same type as those listed.
Example: Let's say a store has a sign that says "No pets allowed, except for dogs, cats, and birds." If someone tries to bring in a snake, the store can argue that the snake is not allowed because it is not of the same kind or class as the dogs, cats, and birds listed.
Another example is the phrase "horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, or any other farm animal." The general language "any other farm animal" would likely be interpreted to include only four-legged, hoofed mammals typically found on farms, and thus would exclude chickens.
These examples illustrate how the eiusdem generis rule helps to clarify the meaning of a general word or phrase by limiting it to items of the same type or class as those listed.