Ejusdem Generis

In one sentence

When specific items are listed followed by general words, the general words apply only to items of the same kind.

Plain English

Ejusdem generis is a Latin phrase meaning "of the same kind." It's a rule courts use when a contract lists specific examples followed by a catch-all phrase like "and other things." The catch-all applies only to things similar to the specific examples, not to anything under the sun. For example, if a contract says "dogs, cats, and other animals," the "other animals" likely means pets, not farm animals or wild animals.

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Example

A contract prohibits "trucks, vans, and other vehicles" from a parking lot. Under ejusdem generis, "other vehicles" means commercial or large vehicles like the trucks and vans mentioned, not motorcycles or bicycles, which are a different category.

Used in a sentence

“The court applied ejusdem generis to limit the phrase "and other items" to goods similar to those specifically named in the list.”

Related terms

Plain Meaning Rule

When contract language is clear, courts interpret it by its ordinary meaning without looking elsewhere.

Noscitur a Sociis

A word's meaning is shaped by the words around it in a contract or document.

Contra Proferentem

Ambiguous contract language is interpreted against the party who wrote it.

Implied Contract

A contract where the parties' intent to be bound is shown by conduct rather than explicit words.

Offer

A proposal to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms.

Acceptance

Agreeing to the exact terms of an offer, creating a binding contract.

Consideration

Something of value exchanged by each party to make a contract binding.

Offeror

The person who makes an offer to enter into a contract.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.