Microlesson · 5-min read

External Aid: Dictionary Definitions

## Dictionary Definitions as an External Aid

### Two-Step Rule

1. If defined in the Act — that specific statutory meaning must be followed. Dictionaries are irrelevant in such a case.

2. If not defined in the Act — courts may refer to dictionaries to find out the general sense in which the word is commonly understood.

### Choosing Between Multiple Dictionary Meanings

Dictionaries often give several meanings for a word. The court must:

Look at the context in which the word is used in the Act.
Select the meaning that best fits the scheme and object of the statute.

Dictionary meaning is a starting point, not a conclusive answer.

Worked example

### Example 1

Choosing among meanings: A word may have a legal, technical and ordinary meaning in the dictionary. If the statute deals with commercial transactions, the commercial/technical meaning may be preferred over the casual ordinary meaning — context decides.

⚠️ Common exam mistakes

Using a dictionary meaning where the Act itself contains a clear definition — the statutory definition always prevails.
Picking the first dictionary meaning without considering the statutory context.
Treating dictionaries as binding authority rather than as a guide.

Reference:

← Previous

External Aid: Consolidating St

External Aid: Earlier & Later

Now that you've read this — what's next?

Move from understanding → mastery in 3 clicks. Each option below picks up from this lesson's topic.

🔥 Drill 5 Qs on this → ✍️ Adaptive practice →

Start 15-min diagnostic