Legal Definitions - tacit

Tacit refers to something that is understood or implied without being directly stated or openly expressed. It often arises from actions, silence, or a shared understanding that doesn't require explicit words or a formal agreement.

• Example 1: Workplace Responsibilities

  A project manager distributes a list of tasks among team members for an upcoming deadline. Each team member begins working on their assigned tasks without verbally confirming, "I accept this task."

  Explanation: The team members' actions of starting the work demonstrate a tacit acceptance of their responsibilities. No explicit verbal or written agreement was made, but their behavior clearly indicates their understanding and agreement to complete the tasks.

• Example 2: Ongoing Business Relationship

  A small business has been using the same IT support company for several years. Each year, the IT company sends an invoice for their ongoing services, and the business pays it without a new formal service contract being signed annually.

  Explanation: The consistent exchange of services for payment over a long period creates a tacit agreement that the IT company will continue to provide support and the business will continue to pay for it, even without a yearly written renewal of their contract.

• Example 3: Lease Renewal by Conduct

  A tenant's one-year apartment lease agreement expires. The tenant continues to live in the apartment and pays the monthly rent, and the landlord continues to accept these payments without issuing a new lease or asking the tenant to vacate.

  Explanation: In many legal systems, this situation can lead to a tacit renewal of the lease, often converting it to a month-to-month tenancy. Although no new written or verbal agreement was made, the actions of both parties (the tenant paying rent and the landlord accepting it) imply a continued rental arrangement.