ejusdem generis
When a statute lists specific words of a common class and then adds general words (“and other…”), the general words are read in the light of the specific ones and confined to the same genus. The rule is an aid to finding legislative intent, not a rule of law.
It applies only when the specific words form a distinct genus or category; if they have nothing in common, or if the context shows the legislature meant the general words to be wide, the rule does not apply. It is related to noscitur a sociis (a word is known by its companions), which is broader. A list such as “cars, buses, lorries and other vehicles” would not normally include aircraft.
Example
Applying ejusdem generis, “other place” in “house, shop, warehouse or other place” was confined to buildings and did not cover an open field.
See also
expressio unius est exclusio alterius · external aids to interpretation
Read more in the study notes
- Penal provisions for dishonour of cheques (ss.138-148) and the Bankers' Books Evidence Act, 1891 (Banking Law)
- Framing of charge and joinder of charges (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita)
- Competency of witnesses and the child witness (Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam)
- State under Article 12 and the meaning of 'other authorities' (Constitutional Law I)
- Rights and duties of an agent (Contract II)
- Final accounts of sole traders: manufacturing, trading, profit and loss account and balance sheet (Financial Accounting)