This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A1 noun #7,000 most common 13 min read

statute

Top 7,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips statute in 30 Seconds

Explanation statute in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'statute' might seem very difficult because it is a formal word. However, you can think of it simply as a 'written rule' for a whole country or state. Imagine a very important book where leaders write down what people can and cannot do. That book is full of statutes. For example, a rule that says 'You must not drive faster than 50 miles per hour' is a statute. It is different from a rule your teacher might have in class or a rule your parents have at home. A statute is a rule from the government. You can use the word 'law' instead, but 'statute' means the rule is written down in a formal way. When you see this word, remember it is about big rules that everyone must follow. You might see it in a news story about a new law. Even though it is a big word, it just means a law that was made by a group of leaders like a parliament. Think of it as a 'government rule.' In simple sentences, you can say 'The statute says no smoking' or 'The statute is old.' It is a noun, which means it is a thing. It is not an action. Because you are a beginner, you don't need to use this word every day, but it is good to know what it means when you hear it on the news. It helps you understand how a country works. Every country has many statutes to keep people safe and to make sure things are fair. Just remember: Statute = Written Law.

At the A2 level, you can start to understand that a 'statute' is a specific kind of law. It is not just any rule; it is a law that a government body has officially passed. You might hear this word in discussions about rules in your city or country. For example, if a city makes a new law about recycling, that is a statute. It is important to know that a statute is always written down. This makes it different from some other types of laws that are based on old traditions. When you use this word, you are talking about something very formal. You might say, 'The new statute helps protect animals' or 'There is a statute against littering.' You should also be careful not to confuse 'statute' with 'statue.' A statue is a piece of art made of stone, like the Statue of Liberty. A statute is a law. They sound similar, but they are very different! In A2 English, you might see this word in simple news articles or in basic social studies classes. It is a useful word because it helps you talk about the government more clearly. Instead of just saying 'the law,' saying 'the statute' shows you know it is a formal, written rule. You can also learn the phrase 'statute of limitations.' This is a common phrase that means there is a time limit for a rule. For example, if someone does something wrong, the police might only have five years to catch them because of a statute of limitations. This is a bit more advanced, but it is a very common way the word is used.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'statute' in more formal contexts, such as in school essays or when discussing current events. A statute is a formal written enactment of a legislative authority that governs a state, city, or country. It is distinct from 'common law,' which is developed by judges through court decisions. When a legislature—like a parliament or a congress—votes on a bill and it passes, it becomes a statute. This word is often used in the context of 'statutory rights' or 'statutory obligations.' For example, as a worker, you might have statutory rights to a certain number of vacation days. This means the law (the statute) specifically says you must have them. You will often find statutes organized into 'codes,' like a 'penal code' for crimes. In your writing, you can use 'statute' to provide a more professional tone than the word 'law.' For instance, 'The statute clearly defines the penalties for tax evasion.' You should also be aware of how statutes can be changed. A legislature can 'amend' a statute to change it or 'repeal' it to remove it completely. At this level, you should also be comfortable with the phrase 'statute of limitations.' This is a legal rule that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. For example, 'The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years.' Understanding this word helps you engage with more complex topics in politics, law, and business.

At the B2 level, you should understand the precise role of a 'statute' within a legal system and be able to use it in sophisticated discussions. A statute is a primary source of law, enacted by the legislative branch of government. It is superior to administrative regulations but must comply with the constitution of the country. B2 learners should distinguish between 'statutes' and 'ordinances' (local laws) and 'regulations' (rules made by executive agencies). When discussing a statute, you might talk about 'statutory interpretation.' This is what judges do when they have to decide exactly what the words in a statute mean when applied to a specific case. For example, if a statute says 'no vehicles in the park,' does that include bicycles or electric wheelchairs? A judge must interpret the statute to decide. You will also encounter the word in terms like 'statutory law' as opposed to 'case law.' In a professional or academic setting, you might say, 'The proposed statute aims to close loopholes in the current tax system.' Or, 'The defendant argued that the statute was unconstitutional.' You should also be familiar with the adjective 'statutory.' For instance, 'statutory requirements' are things you must do because the law says so, like a company having to perform an annual audit. At this level, you are expected to use the word accurately in both speech and writing, reflecting an understanding of its formal and legal weight. You should also be aware of historical statutes that have had a major impact, such as the 'Statute of Westminster,' which helped define the relationship between the UK and its dominions.

At the C1 level, you are expected to have a nuanced understanding of 'statute' and its application in complex legal and political discourse. A statute is not merely a law; it is a codified expression of legislative intent. C1 learners should be able to discuss the nuances of 'statutory construction,' which involves various canons and rules that courts use to interpret statutes. For example, you might discuss the 'plain meaning rule,' where a court applies the statute exactly as it is written if the language is clear. You should also be able to use the word in the context of 'delegated legislation,' where a statute gives an official or a department the power to make more specific regulations. In your writing, you might analyze how a particular statute has evolved over time through various amendments. You could use sentences like, 'The ambiguity in the statute's preamble led to decades of litigation.' Or, 'The statute was enacted to mitigate the adverse effects of industrial deregulation.' You should also be familiar with the 'statute of limitations' in a wide range of contexts, including how it can be 'tolled' or paused under certain conditions. Furthermore, you should understand the concept of 'statutory instruments' in the UK or 'statutory authorities'—bodies created by a statute to perform specific functions. At this level, your use of the word should be precise, distinguishing it from 'provisions,' 'clauses,' and 'sections' within the law itself. You should also be able to recognize and use the word in high-level academic journals, legal briefs, and political analysis, understanding its implications for the balance of power between the legislature and the judiciary.

At the C2 level, you should possess a mastery of the word 'statute,' using it with the precision of a legal professional or a high-level scholar. You understand that a statute is a formal expression of the will of the sovereign power, enacted through a prescribed legislative process. You are capable of discussing the fine points of 'statutory drafting' and the potential for 'statutory conflict,' where two different statutes might seem to require different things. You can engage in deep analysis of 'statutory frameworks,' considering how they interact with constitutional principles and international treaties. For example, you might argue that 'the statute's overbreadth encroaches upon fundamental civil liberties,' or that 'the judicial doctrine of stare decisis must be balanced against the explicit mandates of a newly enacted statute.' You should be familiar with the 'Statute of the International Court of Justice' and other foundational international legal documents. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 'codification,' 'promulgation,' and 'abrogation.' In a C2 context, you might write: 'The legislative history of the statute reveals a complex compromise between competing interest groups, which is reflected in its somewhat convoluted syntax.' You understand that the 'statute of limitations' is not just a deadline but a substantive legal defense that serves the interests of finality and the prevention of stale claims. You can also discuss 'statutory damages,' which are pre-determined amounts of money set by a statute rather than calculated based on actual harm. At this level, 'statute' is a tool for precise, authoritative communication about the very structures that define modern society and the legal order.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

statute in 30 Seconds

A statute is a formal, written law passed by a legislative body like a congress or parliament, serving as a primary legal authority.
It differs from common law or judicial decisions because it is specifically drafted and enacted as a written document for the public.
The term is highly formal and is commonly found in legal, political, and corporate contexts, often relating to rights and obligations.
Commonly confused with 'statue' (a sculpture) or 'stature' (height/reputation), 'statute' specifically refers to the written text of a law.

The term statute refers to a formal, written law that has been officially enacted by a legislative body. Unlike common law, which is derived from judicial decisions and custom, a statute is specifically drafted, debated, and passed by a government entity like a parliament, congress, or a state assembly. In the hierarchy of legal terminology, a statute represents a primary source of law that provides clear, written directives on how society should function. It is the bedrock of modern governance, ensuring that rules are not just arbitrary whims but are documented and accessible to the public. When people use this word, they are usually operating within a legal, political, or highly formal administrative context. It is not a word you would typically use to describe a house rule or a casual agreement between friends; rather, it carries the weight of the state's authority. For example, when a city council passes a new regulation regarding building codes, that regulation is a statute at the local level. In a broader sense, the term encompasses everything from environmental protections to the rules governing financial markets. Understanding what a statute is helps citizens navigate their rights and responsibilities, as these written laws define the boundaries of legal behavior. In the legal profession, lawyers spend a significant amount of time performing 'statutory interpretation,' which is the process of determining exactly what a piece of legislation means in a specific situation. This highlights that while a statute is written down, its application can often be complex and require deep analysis. The word is also central to the concept of the 'Rule of Law,' which suggests that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced. Therefore, a statute is more than just a rule; it is a manifestation of democratic or legislative will, designed to persist until it is either amended or repealed by a subsequent act of the same legislative body.

Legal Authority: A statute is the highest form of written law produced by the legislative branch of government, holding precedence over administrative regulations in many jurisdictions.

The state legislature passed a new statute to increase funding for public libraries across the region.

Codification: Statutes are often organized into 'codes,' such as a penal code or a civil code, to make them easier for lawyers and the public to find and reference.

Under the existing statute, all companies must report their carbon emissions annually.

Public Notice: Because statutes are public documents, the principle of 'ignorantia juris non excusat' (ignorance of the law is no excuse) applies to them.

The federal statute regarding civil rights was amended to include digital privacy protections.

The judge cited a 19th-century statute that had never been repealed to justify the ruling.

Environmental groups are lobbying for a new statute that would ban single-use plastics.

Using the word statute correctly requires an understanding of its formal tone. It is primarily used in writing or speaking about law, government, and corporate compliance. When you use it, you are emphasizing the written and enacted nature of a rule. You might say, 'The statute requires...' or 'According to the statute...' to point toward a specific legal document. It is often paired with verbs like 'enact,' 'repeal,' 'amend,' and 'violate.' For instance, a legislature 'enacts' a statute when they create it, and they 'repeal' it when they want to get rid of it. If they want to change just a part of it, they 'amend' the statute. From the perspective of a citizen or a company, one might 'comply with' or 'violate' a statute. In academic writing, you might discuss 'statutory frameworks' or 'statutory obligations,' which refers to the whole system of laws surrounding a topic. It's also important to distinguish it from 'regulations.' While statutes are passed by legislatures, regulations are usually created by executive agencies to fill in the details of how a statute will be enforced. If you are writing a formal report, using 'statute' instead of 'law' can make your writing sound more precise and professional. For example, instead of saying 'the law about taxes,' you could say 'the federal tax statute.' This specifies that you are referring to the written legislation rather than the general concept of law. In historical contexts, you might hear about the 'Statute of Westminster' or the 'Statute of Frauds.' These are specific famous laws that have shaped legal history. When using the word in a sentence, ensure that the subject is a governing body or the law itself. You wouldn't say 'My mother made a statute that I must clean my room,' because a mother is not a legislative body. Instead, you would use 'rule' or 'command.' This distinction is key to maintaining the correct register of the word. Furthermore, the word appears frequently in the phrase 'statute of limitations,' which refers to the maximum period of time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. Using this phrase correctly shows a high level of English proficiency, as it is a standard legal idiom used in both civil and criminal law discussions.

Common Verbs: Enact, repeal, amend, interpret, violate, uphold, challenge, invoke.

Lawyers argued that the statute was too vague to be enforced fairly.

Prepositional Phrases: Under the statute, pursuant to the statute, in accordance with the statute.

The city council is drafting a statute to regulate the use of electric scooters on sidewalks.

Adjective Form: Statutory requirements are those mandated by a statute.

The statute of limitations for this type of crime is five years.

Congress passed a landmark statute that overhauled the healthcare system.

The defendant claimed that the statute violated his constitutional rights.

You will encounter the word statute in several specific environments. First and foremost is the legal system. If you ever watch a court trial, either in person or on television, you will hear lawyers and judges refer to statutes constantly. They use it to ground their arguments in written law. For example, a judge might say, 'The court must look to the language of the statute to determine the legislative intent.' This highlights that the statute is the ultimate authority in many legal disputes. Secondly, you will hear it in news reports concerning government activity. When a new law is signed by a president or prime minister, journalists often refer to the 'newly enacted statute.' This is especially common in high-stakes political reporting where the exact wording of a law matters for public policy. Thirdly, the word is ubiquitous in the corporate world, particularly in departments like HR, Legal, or Compliance. Companies must adhere to 'statutory regulations' and 'employment statutes.' If you work for a large corporation, you might receive training on 'anti-bribery statutes' or 'data protection statutes.' In these contexts, the word serves as a reminder that the rules are not just company policy but are mandated by the government. Another common place to hear the word is in academic settings, specifically in law schools, political science departments, and history lectures. Students might analyze the 'Statute of Rhuddlan' or the 'Statutes of Kilkenny' to understand how legal systems evolved over centuries. Finally, you might encounter it in everyday life through the phrase 'statute of limitations.' This phrase has entered the common lexicon and is often used even outside of legal contexts to mean that a certain period for taking action has passed, though its primary use remains legal. For instance, in a crime drama, a detective might lament that they can't arrest a suspect because the 'statute of limitations' has run out. Hearing this word signals that the conversation has moved from generalities to specific, legally binding rules. It is a word of precision and authority, used whenever the formal rules of a society are being discussed or enforced. Whether it's a debate in Parliament or a contract negotiation between two multinational firms, the 'statute' is the definitive reference point for what is legally required.

News Media: Reporters use 'statute' to describe major legislative changes, such as 'The new statute aims to curb inflation.'

According to the statute, the governor has the power to declare a state of emergency.

Corporate Compliance: Businesses often hire consultants to ensure they are in full compliance with every relevant statute.

The professor explained that the statute was designed to protect consumers from predatory lending practices.

Journalists are analyzing the fine print of the new statute to see how it affects small businesses.

The legal team reviewed the statute of limitations before filing the lawsuit.

The most common mistake people make with the word statute is confusing it with the word 'statue.' While they look and sound similar, their meanings are entirely different. A 'statue' is a three-dimensional work of art, usually representing a person or animal, carved from stone or cast in metal. A 'statute' is a written law. Confusing the two can lead to embarrassing errors in professional writing. For example, writing 'The city erected a new statute in the park' would imply they put up a written law on a pedestal, which is nonsensical. Similarly, 'The judge followed the statue' would mean the judge is taking legal advice from a piece of sculpture. Another common error is confusing 'statute' with 'stature.' 'Stature' refers to a person's height or their reputation and level of respect. Saying 'He is a man of great statute' is incorrect; it should be 'He is a man of great stature.' A third mistake involves the misapplication of the word to non-legislative rules. People sometimes refer to the rules of a private club or a sports league as 'statutes.' While these organizations might call their internal rules 'statutes' (like the FIFA Statutes), in general English usage, 'statute' almost always implies a law passed by a government. Using it for casual rules can sound overly dramatic or technically incorrect. Furthermore, learners often struggle with the pronunciation. The second 't' in 'statute' is pronounced, unlike in 'statue' where the 'u' creates a 'choo' sound (stat-choo). In 'statute,' it is 'stach-oot' or 'stat-yoot.' Getting the pronunciation wrong can lead to being misunderstood as talking about a sculpture. There is also a tendency to use 'statute' when 'regulation' or 'ordinance' might be more specific. While all are types of laws, a 'statute' is specifically from a high-level legislative body. An 'ordinance' is usually a local municipal law, and a 'regulation' is an administrative rule. Using 'statute' as a catch-all for every kind of rule can sometimes lack the precision required in legal or academic writing. Finally, make sure not to use 'statute' as a verb. You cannot 'statute' a law; you 'enact' or 'legislate' it. The word is strictly a noun.

Statute vs. Statue: Statute = Law (ends in -te). Statue = Sculpture (ends in -ue).

Incorrect: The statue of limitations has expired. (Should be statute)

Statute vs. Stature: Statute = Legal rule. Stature = Height or reputation.

Incorrect: The committee is going to statute a new rule. (Should be 'enact')

Correct: The statute specifies that the fine for littering is $500.

Incorrect: The statute of the Liberty is in New York. (Should be statue)

While statute is a very specific legal term, there are several words that are related or can sometimes serve as alternatives depending on the context. The most obvious synonym is 'law.' However, 'law' is a much broader term that includes statutes, common law, and the general concept of justice. If you want to be precise about a written legislative act, 'statute' is better. Another related word is 'act.' In many English-speaking countries, a statute is officially titled an 'Act,' such as the 'Clean Air Act.' In common conversation, people might use 'act' and 'statute' interchangeably. 'Ordinance' is another similar word, but it usually refers to laws passed at the local or municipal level (like by a city council) rather than a national or state level. 'Regulation' is often used alongside statute; as mentioned before, statutes are passed by legislatures, while regulations are the detailed rules written by agencies to carry out those statutes. 'Decree' is another alternative, but it usually implies a law that comes from a single powerful leader (like a king or a dictator) rather than a representative legislative body. 'Canon' is used specifically for religious or church law (canon law). In the context of corporate or organizational rules, words like 'bylaw' or 'provision' might be used. A 'bylaw' is a rule made by a company or society to control its own actions, whereas a 'statute' is imposed by the state. A 'provision' is a specific clause or requirement within a larger statute. Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the word that best fits the level of authority and the source of the rule you are describing. For example, if you are discussing a rule made by a small town about dog leashes, 'ordinance' is the most accurate. If you are discussing a major piece of legislation passed by the federal government to change the tax code, 'statute' or 'act' is the appropriate choice. If you are talking about the rules of a private golf club, 'bylaws' is the correct term. Using the right word demonstrates not only your vocabulary range but also your understanding of how governance and legal structures work.

Statute vs. Law: Law is the general category; a statute is a specific, written law passed by a legislature.

Statute vs. Ordinance: Statutes are state or national; ordinances are local or municipal.

Statute vs. Regulation: Statutes come from the legislature; regulations come from executive agencies (like the EPA or HMRC).

The new act serves as the primary statute governing maritime trade.

While the statute provides the broad goals, the regulations provide the technical details.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word shares the same root as 'statue' and 'stature,' which all come from the idea of standing still or being placed. While a statue is a physically 'placed' object, a statute is a legally 'placed' rule.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈstætʃ.uːt/

US /ˈstætʃ.ut/

STAT-ute

Rhymes With

Astute Attribute Compute Dispute Execute Institute Substitute Minute (as in small)

Common Errors

Confusing it with 'statue' (stat-choo).
Confusing it with 'stature' (statch-er).
Dropping the final 't' sound.
Putting the stress on the second syllable.
Pronouncing the 'u' as a short 'u' like in 'but'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The word often appears in complex legal texts which can be hard to read.

Writing 4/5

Requires precision to use correctly without confusing it with similar words.

Speaking 3/5

The pronunciation is tricky but manageable once learned.

Listening 3/5

Easily confused with 'statue' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Law Rule Government Write Book

Learn Next

Statutory Legislation Regulation Ordinance Jurisdiction

Advanced

Codification Promulgation Abrogation Jurisprudence Construction

Grammar to Know

Nouns as Adjectives

In 'statute law', the noun 'statute' acts as an adjective to describe the type of law.

Passive Voice in Legal Writing

Statutes are often written in the passive voice, e.g., 'The fine shall be paid...'

Definite vs. Indefinite Articles

Use 'a statute' for any law, 'the statute' for a specific one already mentioned.

Pluralization of Compound Legal Terms

The plural of 'statute of limitations' is 'statutes of limitations'.

Formal Prepositions

Statutes often use 'pursuant to' or 'notwithstanding' rather than 'because of' or 'despite'.

Examples by Level

The statute is a big rule for everyone.

La loi est une règle importante pour tout le monde.

Simple subject-verb-complement structure.

Our country has a new statute.

Notre pays a une nouvelle loi.

Use of the possessive 'our'.

Is this statute old or new?

Cette loi est-elle ancienne ou nouvelle ?

Question form with 'is'.

The statute says 'no smoking'.

La loi dit 'interdiction de fumer'.

Personification of the statute (the statute 'says').

I must follow the statute.

Je dois respecter la loi.

Modal verb 'must' for obligation.

The leaders wrote the statute.

Les dirigeants ont écrit la loi.

Past tense of 'write'.

This statute is for the city.

Cette loi est pour la ville.

Preposition 'for' indicating purpose.

He reads the statute every day.

Il lit la loi tous les jours.

Present simple for habitual action.

The government passed a statute to help the poor.

Le gouvernement a adopté une loi pour aider les pauvres.

Infinitive of purpose 'to help'.

You should check the statute before you start.

Vous devriez vérifier la loi avant de commencer.

Modal 'should' for advice.

This statute protects the forest.

Cette loi protège la forêt.

Third person singular 's' on 'protects'.

There is no statute against that action.

Il n'y a pas de loi contre cette action.

Negative existential 'there is no'.

The statute of limitations is very important.

Le délai de prescription est très important.

Introduction of a common legal idiom.

They are changing the statute this year.

Ils modifient la loi cette année.

Present continuous for a planned change.

Is the statute clear to you?

La loi est-elle claire pour vous ?

Adjective 'clear' modifying 'statute'.

We found the statute in the library.

Nous avons trouvé la loi à la bibliothèque.

Past simple of 'find'.

The statute requires all businesses to pay a special tax.

La loi exige que toutes les entreprises paient une taxe spéciale.

Verb 'require' followed by object + infinitive.

According to the statute, the trial must begin within 30 days.

Selon la loi, le procès doit commencer dans les 30 jours.

Prepositional phrase 'According to'.

The legislature decided to repeal the outdated statute.

La législature a décidé d'abroger la loi obsolète.

Verb 'repeal' meaning to officially end a law.

Does the statute cover digital privacy issues?

La loi couvre-t-elle les questions de confidentialité numérique ?

Verb 'cover' used in the sense of 'include' or 'address'.

Many people believe the statute is too strict.

Beaucoup de gens pensent que la loi est trop stricte.

Adjective 'strict' used to describe the law.

The statute was enacted in 1995.

La loi a été promulguée en 1995.

Passive voice 'was enacted'.

Lawyers are studying the statute to find a solution.

Les avocats étudient la loi pour trouver une solution.

Present continuous indicating ongoing study.

The statute provides clear guidelines for the project.

La loi fournit des directives claires pour le projet.

Verb 'provide' followed by plural noun 'guidelines'.

The judge's ruling was based on a strict interpretation of the statute.

La décision du juge était fondée sur une interprétation stricte de la loi.

Noun phrase 'strict interpretation of the statute'.

The new statute aims to mitigate the impact of climate change.

La nouvelle loi vise à atténuer l'impact du changement climatique.

Verb 'aim' + infinitive.

The company failed to comply with the federal environmental statute.

L'entreprise n'a pas respecté la loi fédérale sur l'environnement.

Verb 'comply with' is a standard collocation.

The statute of limitations has already expired for this case.

Le délai de prescription est déjà expiré pour cette affaire.

Present perfect tense to show current state of expiration.

There is a statutory obligation to report any suspicious activity.

Il existe une obligation légale de signaler toute activité suspecte.

Use of the adjective 'statutory'.

The statute was amended to include protections for gig workers.

La loi a été modifiée pour inclure des protections pour les travailleurs à la demande.

Passive voice 'was amended'.

Legal experts are debating the constitutionality of the statute.

Les experts juridiques débattent de la constitutionnalité de la loi.

Noun 'constitutionality' related to the statute.

The statute grants the minister wide powers of discretion.

La loi accorde au ministre de larges pouvoirs discrétionnaires.

Verb 'grant' followed by indirect and direct objects.

The statute's ambiguous phrasing led to various conflicting judicial opinions.

La formulation ambiguë de la loi a conduit à diverses opinions judiciaires contradictoires.

Possessive 'statute's' followed by an adjective-noun phrase.

The court must look at the legislative history to interpret the statute correctly.

Le tribunal doit examiner l'histoire législative pour interpréter correctement la loi.

Modal 'must' indicating a procedural necessity.

This statute effectively abrogates the previous common law rule.

Cette loi abroge effectivement la règle de common law précédente.

Use of the formal verb 'abrogate'.

The statute provides a comprehensive framework for maritime safety.

La loi fournit un cadre complet pour la sécurité maritime.

Adjective 'comprehensive' modifying 'framework'.

Critics argue that the statute is an overreach of federal authority.

Les critiques soutiennent que la loi est un excès d'autorité fédérale.

Noun 'overreach' describing the effect of the statute.

The statute was designed to be self-executing in times of crisis.

La loi a été conçue pour être exécutoire par elle-même en temps de crise.

Compound adjective 'self-executing'.

The preamble of the statute outlines its primary objectives.

Le préambule de la loi expose ses principaux objectifs.

Technical term 'preamble'.

Non-compliance with the statute can result in severe financial penalties.

Le non-respect de la loi peut entraîner de lourdes sanctions financières.

Noun 'non-compliance' as the subject.

The statute represents a paradigm shift in the nation's approach to criminal justice.

La loi représente un changement de paradigme dans l'approche de la nation en matière de justice pénale.

Metaphorical use of 'paradigm shift'.

The judiciary is tasked with reconciling the statute with entrenched constitutional norms.

Le pouvoir judiciaire est chargé de concilier la loi avec les normes constitutionnelles bien établies.

Complex passive construction 'is tasked with'.

The statute's provisions are so intricately woven that they defy simple categorization.

Les dispositions de la loi sont si étroitement liées qu'elles défient toute catégorisation simple.

Adverb-adjective-participle phrase 'so intricately woven'.

The legislature sought to codify existing customs into a singular, cohesive statute.

La législature a cherché à codifier les coutumes existantes en une loi unique et cohérente.

Verb 'codify' meaning to turn into a systematic code.

The statute contains a sunset clause, meaning it will expire in five years unless renewed.

La loi contient une clause de caducité, ce qui signifie qu'elle expirera dans cinq ans à moins qu'elle ne soit renouvelée.

Technical legal term 'sunset clause'.

The statute's efficacy has been hampered by a lack of administrative resources.

L'efficacité de la loi a été entravée par un manque de ressources administratives.

Passive present perfect 'has been hampered'.

Legal scholars have scrutinized the statute's legislative intent for decades.

Les juristes ont scruté l'intention législative de la loi pendant des décennies.

Present perfect 'have scrutinized' for long-term action.

The statute was promulgated amidst a period of intense civil unrest.

La loi a été promulguée au milieu d'une période d'intenses troubles civils.

Formal verb 'promulgated'.

Synonyms

law act decree ordinance regulation mandate

Antonyms

lawlessness anarchy

Common Collocations

enact a statute

repeal a statute

violate a statute

statute of limitations

federal statute

under the statute

interpret a statute

statutory requirements

draft a statute

challenge a statute

Common Phrases

By statute

— According to the law. It indicates that something is legally required.

By statute, all citizens must have health insurance.

Statute book

— The collection of all the laws of a country or state. It is often used figuratively.

This new law will be a welcome addition to the statute book.

Statute of Frauds

— A specific legal rule requiring certain contracts to be in writing. It is a fundamental concept in contract law.

The sale of land must be in writing under the Statute of Frauds.

Criminal statute

— A law that defines crimes and sets punishments. It is the basis of the penal system.

The criminal statute clearly defines what constitutes a felony.

Civil statute

— A law that deals with private rights and relations between individuals. It covers things like contracts and property.

The civil statute governs how property is divided after a divorce.

Regulatory statute

— A law that controls how businesses or activities are conducted. It often involves oversight by an agency.

The regulatory statute for banking was tightened after the crisis.

State statute

— A law passed by a state legislature rather than the national government. It applies only within that state.

Each state has its own statute regarding the age of consent.

Statutory body

— An organization or group that is created by a law. It has specific powers given to it by that law.

The Food Standards Agency is a statutory body.

Statutory law

— The body of law consisting of written statutes. It is contrasted with common law.

Statutory law has become increasingly dominant in modern legal systems.

Statutory rape

— A legal term for sexual activity where one person is under the legal age of consent. It is defined by statute.

The defendant was charged with statutory rape.

Often Confused With

statute vs Statue

A statue is a sculpture. A statute is a law. Remember the 'T' in statute for 'Text'.

statute vs Stature

Stature refers to height or reputation. 'He is a man of great stature' (not statute).

statute vs Status

Status refers to social standing or the current state of something. 'What is the status of the project?'

Idioms & Expressions

"Statute of limitations"

— The time limit during which a person can be charged with a crime or sued. It ensures that legal actions are taken while evidence is fresh.

The statute of limitations on that debt has already run out.

formal

"Letter of the statute"

— Following the exact wording of a law, even if it ignores the original purpose or intent. It is often used in contrast to the 'spirit' of the law.

He followed the letter of the statute but ignored its spirit.

formal

"On the statute books"

— To be an official, active law. It implies that the law is currently in effect.

That old law is still on the statute books, though it's rarely enforced.

neutral

"Statutory authority"

— The power given to a person or group by a specific law to perform certain actions. It is a common term in administrative law.

The police have the statutory authority to stop and search suspects.

formal

"Statutory instrument"

— A type of secondary legislation used in the UK to make detailed changes to the law without passing a new Act. It is a technical term.

The minister used a statutory instrument to update the safety regulations.

formal

"Statutory duty"

— A task or responsibility that a person or organization must perform because the law requires it. Failure to do so can lead to legal action.

Employers have a statutory duty to provide a safe working environment.

formal

"Statutory declaration"

— A formal statement made in a prescribed form, which has the same legal weight as an oath in court. It is used for legal documents.

He had to sign a statutory declaration to prove his identity.

formal

"Statutory period"

— A specific length of time defined by law for a particular purpose. It is often used in tax or property law.

The statutory period for filing an appeal is thirty days.

formal

"Statutory sick pay"

— The minimum amount of money an employer must pay an employee who is too ill to work. It is a common term in UK employment law.

She was worried about living on just statutory sick pay.

neutral

"Statutory warning"

— A warning that is required by law to be placed on a product, such as cigarettes or alcohol. It is meant to inform the consumer.

The statutory warning on the pack says smoking causes cancer.

neutral

Easily Confused

statute vs Statue

They look and sound very similar.

A statue is a physical object made of stone or metal. A statute is a piece of writing that is a law.

The statue of a lion stands outside the court where the statutes are kept.

statute vs Stature

Both start with 'stat' and have similar endings.

Stature describes how tall a person is or how much they are respected. Statute is a law.

The senator's great stature helped him pass the new statute.

statute vs Station

Both start with 'stat'.

A station is a place where trains or buses stop. A statute is a law.

I read the new statute while waiting at the station.

statute vs Status

Both start with 'statu'.

Status is the position or condition of someone or something. Statute is a law.

The legal status of the statute is currently being debated.

statute vs Statutory

It is the adjective form of the word.

Statute is the noun (the law itself). Statutory is the adjective (describing things required by that law).

The statute created several new statutory requirements.

Sentence Patterns

The [noun] is [adjective].

The statute is good.

There is a statute against [gerund].

There is a statute against stealing.

The statute requires [object] to [verb].

The statute requires shops to close early.

According to the statute, [clause].

According to the statute, you must pay the fee.

The statute was enacted to [verb].

The statute was enacted to reduce pollution.

The statute's [noun] is [adjective].

The statute's language is ambiguous.

Notwithstanding the statute, [clause].

Notwithstanding the statute, the judge allowed the evidence.

The statute of limitations for [noun] is [time].

The statute of limitations for fraud is six years.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in legal and political news; rare in casual daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using 'statue' when you mean 'statute'. → The statute of limitations has run out.
A statue is a sculpture; a statute is a law. This is the most frequent error for English learners.
Using 'statute' for rules at home or in a private club. → The club's bylaws prohibit smoking.
Statutes are specifically laws passed by a government. Private organizations use 'bylaws' or 'rules.'
Saying 'The government statuted a new law.' → The government enacted a new statute.
'Statute' is a noun, not a verb. You cannot 'statute' something.
Confusing 'statute' with 'stature'. → He is a man of great stature.
Stature means height or reputation. Statute means law. They are not interchangeable.
Pronouncing 'statute' like 'status'. → Stat-yoot (Statute) vs. Stay-tus (Status).
Status refers to a state or condition. Statute refers to a law. The pronunciation is distinct.

Tips

Use it for Authority

When you want to emphasize that a rule is official and written, use 'statute' instead of 'rule' or 'law.' It adds a layer of formal authority to your statement.

The 'T' Rule

Always check if you need the 'T' at the end. If you are talking about a law, you need the 'T' (Statute). If you are talking about a stone person, you don't (Statue).

Check the Level

Remember that statutes are usually national or state-level. For local city rules, the word 'ordinance' is often more accurate, though 'statute' is sometimes used broadly.

Use 'Statutory'

If you need to describe a right or a duty that comes from a statute, use the adjective 'statutory.' For example, 'statutory sick pay' or 'statutory rights.'

Watch the 'U'

Make sure you pronounce the 'u' clearly as an 'oo' or 'yoo' sound. Don't let it disappear, or it might sound like 'status' (stay-tus).

Capitalization

Only capitalize 'statute' if it is part of a proper name, like 'The Statute of Westminster.' Otherwise, keep it lowercase even in formal reports.

Statute of Limitations

This is the most common use of the word. Memorize this phrase as it is very useful in both legal and general business contexts.

Legislative Intent

When writing about statutes, mention 'legislative intent.' This refers to what the lawmakers were trying to achieve when they wrote the statute.

Pair with 'Enact'

Statutes are 'enacted,' not 'made.' Using the verb 'enact' with 'statute' shows a high level of English proficiency.

Codification

Use the word 'codification' when talking about putting many statutes together into one organized book or system.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Remember: A statuTe is a written TexT of a law. The 'T' at the end stands for Text. A statue (no T at the end) is just for you to view.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant book sitting on a desk in a courtroom. On the cover, it says 'STATUTES.' This book is heavy and full of text, representing the weight of the law.

Word Web

Law Legislature Act Regulation Congress Parliament Code Legal

Challenge

Try to find one 'statute of limitations' for a crime in your country and write a sentence about it using the word correctly.

Word Origin

The word 'statute' comes from the Latin word 'statutum,' which is the neuter past participle of 'statuere,' meaning 'to set up' or 'to decree.' It entered Middle English through the Old French word 'statut.' The root 'sta-' is common in many words related to standing or being fixed.

Original meaning: Something that has been set up or established as a rule.

Indo-European (Latin branch)

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing 'statutory rape' as it is a sensitive and serious legal topic.

In the US and UK, the legislative process to create a statute is highly structured, involving multiple readings and committee reviews.

The Statute of Westminster (1931) The Statute of Frauds (1677) The Statute of Liberty (Commonly confused reference!)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Law Court

Cite the statute
Interpret the statute
Statutory interpretation
Violation of the statute

Government/Politics

Pass a statute
Repeal a statute
Draft a statute
Legislative statute

Corporate Business

Comply with the statute
Statutory compliance
Regulatory statute
Employment statute

History

Ancient statute
Statute of Westminster
Medieval statutes
Historical statute

Daily News

New statute enacted
Controversial statute
Statute of limitations
Federal statute

Conversation Starters

"Do you think the statute of limitations for minor crimes should be longer or shorter?"

"Have you ever read a specific statute that you found particularly confusing or interesting?"

"In your country, how difficult is it for the government to pass a new statute?"

"Do you know of any old statutes that are still active but seem very outdated today?"

"What is the most important statute that has been passed in your country recently?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you had to follow a rule that you later found out was an official statute.

If you could write one new statute to improve your city, what would it be and why?

Research a famous historical statute and explain how it changed the lives of people back then.

Explain the difference between a statute and a personal rule in your own words.

Discuss why it is important for laws to be written down as statutes rather than just spoken.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

A law is a broad term that includes any rule made by a government. A statute is a specific type of law that is written down and passed by a legislative body. All statutes are laws, but not all laws (like common law) are statutes.

Yes, a statute can be changed through a process called 'amending.' The legislative body that created the statute can vote to change specific parts of its text. They can also 'repeal' it, which means getting rid of it entirely.

It is a law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal action can be taken. For example, if the statute of limitations for a crime is five years, a person cannot be charged with that crime six years after it happened.

Statutes are created by a 'legislative body.' This includes groups like the U.S. Congress, the UK Parliament, or a state's legislature. They are representatives elected by the people to make laws.

No, a constitution is usually considered a higher form of law than a statute. Statutes must follow the rules set out in the constitution. If a statute violates the constitution, a court can declare it invalid.

A statutory body is an organization that was created by a statute. For example, a government agency like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a statutory body because it was established by a law passed by Congress.

Statutes are public documents. You can find them in official government publications, law libraries, and on government websites. They are often organized into 'Codes' by subject matter.

Generally, yes. A federal statute applies to everyone in the country, while a state statute applies to everyone in that state. However, some statutes only apply to certain groups, like businesses or specific professions.

Breaking a statute is a violation of the law. The consequences depend on the statute and can include fines, community service, or even jail time in the case of criminal statutes.

Statutes are written to be as precise as possible to avoid confusion in court. This often requires using technical legal terms and complex sentence structures, which can make them hard for non-lawyers to read.