last antecedent rule

noun

: a doctrine in the interpretation of statutes: qualifying words or phrases refer only to the last antecedent word or phrase unless the context or entire act clearly requires otherwise

called also last antecedent doctrine

Dictionary Entries Near last antecedent rule

Cite this Entry

“Last antecedent rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/last%20antecedent%20rule. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

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