SURPLUSAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Surplusage refers to an excessive or unnecessary amount of something, particularly when it comes to words, phrases, or details that are included in speech or writing. It is often used in the context of legal terminology to describe the inclusion of redundant or superfluous words or phrases in a contract, legal statute, or other legal document.
In legal writing, surplusage is considered problematic as it can create ambiguity, confusion, or unnecessary complexity. It may also lead to misunderstandings or disputes during the interpretation or application of legal texts. Therefore, precision and conciseness are highly valued in legal language, and the elimination of surplusage is a crucial aspect of legal drafting.
Surplusage can be identified by examining the overall meaning or intent of the text and assessing whether particular words or phrases serve a redundant purpose. In legal interpretation, courts may endeavor to disregard surplusage in order to ascertain the true intention of the law.
Outside the legal field, surplusage can refer to any situation where there is an excess or surplus, such as surplus commodities, goods, or resources. It can also be used metaphorically to describe situations where there is an abundance of something, often in a negative sense, such as an excess of information, options, or demands. In these contexts, surplusage implies that there is more than what is necessary or desired, often causing inefficiencies or difficulties.
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That which remains over; in law, something in the pleadings or proceedings not necessary to the case.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SURPLUSAGE
- aurplusage
- zurplusage
- xurplusage
- durplusage
- eurplusage
- wurplusage
- syrplusage
- shrplusage
- sjrplusage
- sirplusage
- s8rplusage
- s7rplusage
- sueplusage
- sudplusage
- sufplusage
- sutplusage
- su5plusage
- su4plusage
- surolusage
Etymology of SURPLUSAGE
The word "surplusage" originated from Middle English, combining the Old French words "sur" meaning "above" or "in addition", and "plussage" meaning "surplus" or "excess". The term later evolved into the English word "surplus" with a similar meaning.
Similar spelling words for SURPLUSAGE
