English Explanatory Dictionary

spirit of the law

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. Either the intent behind a law's wording, or the reasonable effect that the law ought to be applied toward; the interpretation of the law towards the end of providing justice, even if this interpretation competes with one that is asserted to be overliteral, pedantic, or punctilious.

Word forms

spirit of the law

Related words

antilegalism honor in the breach more honored in the breach in spirit legalism legalistic
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