Legal Definitions - interpretatio limitata

Definition:Interpretatio limitata is a type of restrictive interpretation used in legal contexts. It refers to an interpretation that is bound by a principle or principles existing outside the interpreted text.

For example, if a law is interpreted restrictively, it means that the interpretation is limited to the exact words used in the law and does not allow for any additional meanings or implications. This type of interpretation is often used to ensure that the law is applied only in specific circumstances and not in a broader sense.

Another example of interpretatio limitata is when a court interprets a contract narrowly, based only on the specific language used in the contract, rather than considering any outside factors or circumstances.

Overall, interpretatio limitata is a way to ensure that legal interpretations are precise and consistent, and that they do not stray from the intended meaning of the text.