Whether you're drafting a contract, arguing in court, or simply trying to navigate legal documentation, understanding and using Legal English collocations correctly is crucial. It's not rocket science, but it does require precision and a bit of dedication.
Let's break it down:
Table of Contents:
What are Legal English Collocations?
A collocation (also collocate) is a word or phrase frequently combined with another word or phrase to enhance meaning. An example of a common collocation is "heavy snow."
Legal English collocations are simply collocations that are often used in the legal field. Understanding these collocations helps you become more effective, precise, and professional in a legal context. So, buckle up, focus, and start integrating these into your legal lexicon. It's not just about being good; it's about being the best.
The 20 Most Common Legal Collocations in English
1. Enter into a contract/agreement
This phrase is used when parties formally agree to the terms of a contract. Example: The two companies entered into an agreement to share technology.
2. Breach of contract
This term refers to a violation of a contract's terms. Example: Failing to deliver goods on time could result in a breach of contract.
3. Issue proceedings
This means to start formal legal action or litigation. Example: The company issued proceedings against the contractor for non-compliance.
4. Serve a notice
This involves officially delivering a legal document, often as part of a legal process. Example: The tenant was served a notice of eviction due to unpaid rent.
5. File a claim/lawsuit
To officially start legal action in a court. Example: The customer filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer for product defects.
6. Grant a license
This is about giving official permission, usually in the context of intellectual property or specific rights. Example: The artist granted a license to the company to use her artwork.
7. Hold liable
To legally hold someone responsible for something. Example: The court held the company liable for environmental damages.
8. Enforce a judgment
This means ensuring a court's decision is implemented. Example: The creditor sought to enforce the judgment against the debtor.
9. Settle a dispute
To resolve a legal disagreement or conflict, often outside court. Example: The parties settled the dispute through mediation.
10. Waive a right
To voluntarily give up a legal right. Example: He waived his right to a lawyer.
11. Infringe a patent/right
Illegally violating someone's patent or legal right. Example: The new product was accused of infringing on an existing patent.
12. Draft a document
To write a legal document, often in preliminary form. Example: The lawyer drafted a will for her client.
13. Uphold an appeal
To agree with a lower court's decision during an appeal process. Example: The higher court upheld the appeal, maintaining the original verdict.
14. Violate a law/regulation
To break a law or not comply with a regulation. Example: The company was found to violate environmental regulations.
15. Execute a deed
To legally complete a document, especially one that conveys property. Example: They executed a deed of sale when transferring the property.
16. Negotiate terms
To discuss and decide the specifics of an agreement. Example: The union negotiated the terms of employment with management.
17. Invoke a clause
To use a specific part of a contract, usually to enforce rights or obligations. Example: The buyer invoked the clause to terminate the contract.
18. Comply with regulations
To act according to rules or laws. Example: The new factory must comply with local safety regulations.
19. Award damages
To officially grant money as compensation for harm or loss. Example: The court awarded damages to the plaintiff for the breach of contract.
20. Lodge an appeal
To formally make an appeal against a decision in a court. Example: The defendant lodged an appeal against the conviction after the trial.
Legal Collocations Exercise
Complete the sentences with the correct legal collocation from the list provided on the previous page:
1. The contractor was accused of a __________ for not completing the work on time.
2. The small business owner __________ against the supplier for delivering substandard materials.
3. Upon receiving a complaint about noise, the apartment management __________ to the tenant.
4. If a company causes environmental harm, it may be __________ for the damage.
5. After suffering from a defective product, the customer __________ against the manufacturer.
6. The software developer __________ for their new application to protect its unique features.
7. The winning party in the lawsuit requested the court to __________ that favored them.
8. To avoid a lengthy court case, the two companies decided to __________ amicably.
9. During the merger negotiations, both companies had to __________ regarding employee retention.
10. The suspect in the criminal case __________ to a trial by jury.
11. The competitor was sued for __________ of the patented technology.
12. The attorney __________ for the sale of the estate property.
13. The appeal court __________, thus not changing the original court's decision.
14. Several businesses were fined for __________ related to health and safety.
15. To finalize the sale, the parties __________ of the property.
16. The contract's termination __________ was activated due to non-performance.
17. Dissatisfied with the verdict, the accused __________ to a higher court.
18. Manufacturers must __________ when producing pharmaceuticals.
19. In the defamation case, the jury __________ to the aggrieved party.
20. The two parties __________ to solidify their business partnership.
Answers
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