A statute is a specific, written law enacted by a government legislature.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A formal written law created by a legislative body.
- It differs from judicial rulings or executive orders.
- Statutes form the foundation of most modern legal systems.
Overview
A statute is a fundamental legal instrument. Unlike common law, which is developed through court decisions and judicial precedents, a statute is created by elected representatives in a legislative assembly. Once a bill passes through the required parliamentary stages and receives executive approval, it becomes a statute, officially entering the body of law.
Usage Patterns
The word is primarily used in legal, political, and academic contexts. You will often see it used with verbs like 'enact,' 'pass,' 'repeal,' or 'violate.' It refers specifically to the written document of the law itself, rather than the abstract concept of justice or morality. In plural form, 'statutes' refers to the entire collection of laws governing a jurisdiction.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used in news reporting regarding government proceedings, in legal textbooks, and in courtroom settings. For example, a lawyer might argue that a particular action is permitted under a specific statute. It is also used in administrative contexts, such as corporate bylaws or the foundational documents of an organization, which may be referred to as statutes.
Similar Words Comparison: While 'law' is a general term for any rule, 'statute' is specific to legislation. A 'regulation' is typically created by an administrative agency to implement a statute. A 'code' is a systematic collection of statutes, and an 'ordinance' is a law passed specifically by a local municipal government, whereas statutes usually apply at the state, provincial, or national level.
Examples
The government passed a new statute regarding environmental protection.
everydayThe government passed a new statute regarding environmental protection.
The court ruled that the defendant's actions violated the statute.
formalThe court ruled that the defendant's actions violated the statute.
Each member must adhere to the statutes of the organization.
academicEach member must adhere to the statutes of the organization.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
statutory requirement
a requirement mandated by law
statute of limitations
a law setting a time limit for legal action
Often Confused With
A statue is a physical object, like a sculpture. A statute is an abstract written rule.
An ordinance is a law passed by a city or local council. A statute is usually passed by a state or national legislature.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Statute is a formal, high-register noun. It is almost exclusively used in legal, political, or institutional settings. Avoid using it in casual conversation where 'law' or 'rule' would be more natural.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is spelling it 'statue', which refers to a sculpture. Another error is using it to describe non-legal rules, such as house rules or school policies, which are better described as 'regulations' or 'policies'.
Tips
Use with legislative verbs
Pair statute with verbs like 'enact', 'pass', or 'repeal' to sound more professional. This highlights your understanding of the legislative process.
Do not confuse with statue
A 'statue' is a carved or cast figure of a person or animal. Ensure you include the 't' after the 'a' to avoid a spelling error that changes the meaning entirely.
Statutory Law vs Common Law
In countries like the UK and US, the legal system is a mix of statutes and common law. Understanding this distinction is key to grasping how these countries are governed.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin word 'statutum,' meaning 'something decided or fixed.' It shares the same root as 'status' and 'statue,' relating to something that stands or is established.
Cultural Context
Statutes are the backbone of democracy, representing the will of the people as expressed through their elected representatives. They provide the predictability and stability required for a functioning society.
Memory Tip
Statute has a 't' for 'text' because it is a written law. A statue has no 't' in the middle, representing a solid object.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsAll statutes are laws, but not all laws are statutes. Some laws originate from court rulings or common law, whereas statutes are exclusively created by legislative bodies.
Yes, statutes can be amended or repealed by the same legislative body that created them. This process ensures that laws can evolve to meet the changing needs of society.
You can use it to describe the origin of a rule, such as 'The new statute prohibits the use of plastic bags.' It is a formal term, so it is best used in professional or academic writing.
Test Yourself
The parliament voted to ___ the outdated statute that restricted trade.
To repeal is the formal term for canceling or removing a law.
Score: /1
Summary
A statute is a specific, written law enacted by a government legislature.
- A formal written law created by a legislative body.
- It differs from judicial rulings or executive orders.
- Statutes form the foundation of most modern legal systems.
Use with legislative verbs
Pair statute with verbs like 'enact', 'pass', or 'repeal' to sound more professional. This highlights your understanding of the legislative process.
Do not confuse with statue
A 'statue' is a carved or cast figure of a person or animal. Ensure you include the 't' after the 'a' to avoid a spelling error that changes the meaning entirely.
Statutory Law vs Common Law
In countries like the UK and US, the legal system is a mix of statutes and common law. Understanding this distinction is key to grasping how these countries are governed.
Examples
3 of 3The government passed a new statute regarding environmental protection.
The government passed a new statute regarding environmental protection.
The court ruled that the defendant's actions violated the statute.
The court ruled that the defendant's actions violated the statute.
Each member must adhere to the statutes of the organization.
Each member must adhere to the statutes of the organization.
Quick Quiz
The ______ of limitations for this minor crime is only two years.
Correct!
The correct answer is: statute
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