Legal Definitions - enumerate

Enumerate (verb)

To enumerate means to list items, points, or conditions individually and systematically, often to ensure clarity, completeness, or to specify each component one by one.

• Example 1: In a real estate contract, the seller might enumerate all the fixtures and appliances included in the sale, such as the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and built-in shelving, to avoid any future disputes about what stays with the property.

  Explanation: This example illustrates enumerate because the seller is creating a specific, itemized list of each individual item that is part of the sale, rather than making a general statement, ensuring every component is clearly identified.

• Example 2: A company's employee handbook might enumerate the specific types of conduct that are prohibited in the workplace, such as harassment, theft, or unauthorized use of company property, along with the disciplinary actions for each.

  Explanation: Here, enumerate refers to the act of listing each unacceptable behavior separately and distinctly, providing a clear and comprehensive guide for employees about what is not allowed.

• Example 3: When drafting a will, an individual might enumerate each specific asset they wish to bequeath to different beneficiaries, detailing which person receives which piece of property, financial account, or valuable item.

  Explanation: This demonstrates enumerate by showing how the will-maker itemizes and specifies each individual asset and its intended recipient, leaving no ambiguity about the distribution of their estate.