noun
The process of interpreting,
or the interpretation of, a constitution, statute, or instrument. See also
legislative history and
intent.
canon of construction
Any of the general principles that courts apply to
construe a statute or instrument whose meaning is in dispute.
liberal construction
The interpretation of a constitutional or statutory
provision that applies the original intent, purpose, and spirit of the writing
to circumstances that are not specifically addressed by the constitution or
statute. Also called broad interpretation.
strict construction
The interpretation of a constitutional or statutory
provision that applies only the literal words of the writing to circumstances
that are not specifically addressed by the constitution or statute. Also call
narrow construction.