The rule of Noscitur-a-sociis is a principle of legal interpretation used to interpret statutes or contracts. The rule applies when a word or phrase is unclear or ambiguous in meaning and is used in conjunction with other words or phrases. Under the rule of Noscitur-a-sociis, the unclear word or phrase is interpreted in light of the words or phrases surrounding it.
The Latin phrase “Noscitur-a-sociis” means “it is known by its associates.” The rule is based on the principle that words or phrases used together in a statute or contract are often related and should be interpreted together in order to determine their intended meaning.
Example: If a statute refers to “car, truck, bus, and other vehicles,” the rule of Noscitur-a-sociis would suggest that the term “vehicles” should be interpreted to include only motorized modes of transportation, rather than any type of vehicle, because the specific terms used before it are all motorized.
The rule of Noscitur-a-sociis is often used in conjunction with other principles of legal interpretation, such as the rule of ejusdem generis, which applies when a list of specific items or categories is followed by a more general term.
However, the rule of Noscitur-a-sociis is not always conclusive and may be outweighed by other factors such as the plain meaning of the word or phrase or the overall intent of the statute or contract. Ultimately, the court will apply the rule in a way that is consistent with the overall purpose and intent of the statute or contract.
