Legal Definitions - interpolation

Interpolation refers to the act of inserting new words or phrases into an existing document. This insertion can be done to clarify, complete, or alter the original meaning of the text. While sometimes legitimate for clarification, it often carries a negative connotation, implying an unauthorized or misleading addition that changes the document's original intent or content.

• Imagine a draft of a real estate purchase agreement between a buyer and a seller. After reviewing the initial document, both parties realize that the specific closing date was accidentally left blank. They agree to insert the phrase "on or before October 31st, 2024" into the designated space before signing the final contract.

  This example demonstrates interpolation in a legitimate sense. Words were inserted into the document to complete a missing detail and clarify the agreed-upon terms, with the full knowledge and consent of all involved parties.

• Consider a situation where a company's official meeting minutes are being reviewed. An employee later discovers that a sentence was added to the minutes, stating that a particular decision was unanimously approved, even though the discussion at the meeting clearly showed significant dissent and no such unanimous vote occurred. This addition was made by a manager after the meeting concluded, without the knowledge or approval of the other attendees.

  Here, interpolation is used in a negative sense. Words were inserted into an official record without authorization, falsely altering the historical account of the meeting to misrepresent a decision as unanimous.