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Simple English definitions for legal terms
literal construction
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A quick definition of literal construction:
Literal construction refers to the interpretation of a written document, such as a law or contract, based solely on the literal words used in the document. This means that the words are taken at face value and not given any broader or alternative meanings. It is the opposite of liberal construction, which looks at the purpose and spirit of the document to interpret its meaning. Literal construction is also known as strict construction and can sometimes lead to narrow interpretations of the document.A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Literal construction refers to an interpretation of a written document, such as a law or contract, that considers only the literal words used in the document.
For example, if a law states that "no vehicles are allowed in the park," a literal construction would mean that no type of vehicle, including bicycles or skateboards, would be allowed in the park.
Literal construction is often contrasted with liberal construction, which takes into account the purpose and spirit of the document in addition to the literal words used.
Overall, literal construction is a strict approach to interpreting written documents that focuses solely on the words used, rather than the intent or purpose behind them.