Rules of Language

Ejusdem Generis

• General words in an act are interpreted to be the samme as particular words in the Act
• E.g. "Dogs, cats and other animals" - 'other animals' will be interpreted to mean domestic such as dogs and cats
• Powell v Kempton Park Racecourse

Advantages & Disadvantages of the Ejusdem Generis Rule

• Draftsmen do not have to include everything in a list
• It is not predictable what Judges might include in the same category
• Allows for Judicial law making

Expressio unius est exclusion alterius

• The expression of one thing means the exclusion of another
• When particular words are not followed by general words, only the particular words apply
• R v Inhabitants of Sedgley

Advantages & Disadvantages of the Expressio unius est exclusio alterious Rule

• A finite list is provided, making cases more predictable
• Respects the seperation of powers as Judges only apply the law
• No scopre for development of an Act

Noscitur a Sociis

• The meaning of a word interpreted by the context it's written in
• Muir v Keay

Advantages & Disadvantages of the

Noscitur a sociis Rule

• Draftsmen do not have to foresee all circumstances
• Allows for Judicial law making
• The outcome of cases is unpredictable