Whether you’re drafting a contract, negotiating a deal, or advising clients across borders, here are 10 essential Legal English terms you should know—and know how to use correctly.
1. Indemnify
To compensate for harm or loss. Often used in contract clauses related to liability.
Example: “The supplier shall indemnify the buyer against all claims arising from defective products.”
2. Breach
A failure to perform an obligation in a contract or law.
Example: “Failure to deliver goods on time constitutes a material breach of this agreement.”
3. Force Majeure
A clause that frees both parties from obligation when extraordinary events occur.
Example: “Force majeure events include natural disasters, war, and government restrictions.”
4. Arbitration
A method of resolving disputes outside of court, typically binding.
Example: “Any disputes shall be resolved through binding arbitration in accordance with ICC rules.”
5. Jurisdiction
The authority of a legal body to rule on a matter.
Example: “This agreement shall be governed by the laws and under the jurisdiction of New York.”
6. Consideration
The value exchanged between parties in a contract.
Example: “For valid consideration, both parties agree to the terms set forth herein.”
7. Confidentiality
The obligation not to disclose certain information.
Example: “The parties agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding proprietary data.”
8. Severability
If one part of a contract is invalid, the rest still stands.
Example: “If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining clauses shall remain in full effect.”
9. Due Diligence
A legal investigation or audit before entering into an agreement.
Example: “The buyer conducted due diligence before acquiring the company.”
10. Waiver
The voluntary relinquishment of a legal right.
Example: “Failure to enforce a clause does not constitute a waiver of that clause.”
Why Legal English Vocabulary Matters
Many international lawyers know general English, but Legal English has its own specific terms, patterns, and tone. Misunderstanding a word like “consideration” or “waiver” can lead to confusion—or worse, legal liability.
Investing time in mastering these key terms will:
- Improve your contract drafting
- Enhance your negotiation clarity
- Boost your confidence in client meetings
- Reduce costly misunderstandings
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