Alieni generis

Alieni generis is a legal principle used in interpreting statutes. It is a Latin term that means “of another kind” or “of a different kind.” When applied in legal interpretation, it suggests that general words in a statute should be interpreted narrowly to include only things of the same kind as those listed specifically.

For example, if a law lists specific animals such as dogs, cats, and birds, and then uses the general term “animals,” the alieni generis principle would suggest that the term “animals” should be interpreted to include only animals of a similar kind to dogs, cats, and birds.

This principle helps prevent overly broad interpretations and ensures that the general term is limited to things that are similar to the specifically listed items. It is a tool used by courts to determine legislative intent and maintain consistency in statutory interpretation.