Definition
More or Less is a term used in legal contracts and conveyances to indicate that the exact amount of a specified measurement is approximate and small variations from the stated measurement do not affect the validity of the contract. This stipulation is often employed in real estate transactions where exact measurements are not practicable.
Examples
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Real Estate Transactions: A piece of land is described in a sale contract as measuring “100 acres, more or less.” If the actual survey determines the land is 98 or 102 acres, the contract remains binding.
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Supply Agreements: A supplier agrees to deliver “500 tons of grain, more or less.” If delivery amounts to 495 or 505 tons, the agreement is still considered fulfilled.
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Construction Projects: A contractor agrees to build “20,000 square feet of office space, more or less.” Minor deviations due to practical considerations do not void the contract.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What does ‘more or less’ imply in property descriptions?
- A1: It implies that the actual size of the property may vary slightly from the stated dimensions, but the contract remains enforceable despite these variations.
Q2: Is there a legal threshold for ‘more or less’?
- A2: Specific legal thresholds can vary depending on jurisdiction and the nature of the contract. However, minor, reasonable variations are generally accepted.
Q3: Can ‘more or less’ apply to non-tangible goods?
- A3: Yes, it can apply to quantities of goods in supply contracts, the number of items produced, and other measurable quantities subject to minor deviation.
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Approximation: The act of estimating a number or value that is close to the actual amount but not exact. In contracts, it accommodates minor discrepancies.
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De Minimis: A legal principle referring to matters or issues so minor that they are not deemed legally relevant.
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Sale by Quantity: A sale agreement stipulating the quantity of goods to be delivered, which may also include terms tolerating minor quantity deviations.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Study
- Black’s Law Dictionary by Bryan A. Garner
- Legal Aspects of Real Estate by William Pivar and Robert Bruss
- Principles of Contract Law by Robert A. Hillman
Fundamentals of More or Less: Legal Contracts Basics Quiz
### What does 'more or less' primarily address in a contract?
- [x] Approximate measurements
- [ ] Exact financial costs
- [ ] Quality of goods
- [ ] Conditions of employment
> **Explanation:** The term 'more or less' is used to address approximate measurements, such as acreage or quantities, allowing for minor deviations.
### In which scenario is 'more or less' typically used?
- [x] Real estate transactions
- [ ] License agreements
- [ ] Employment contracts
- [ ] Partnership agreements
> **Explanation:** 'More or less' is commonly used in real estate transactions to account for slight variations in property size.
### Does 'more or less' allow a contract to remain valid if exact measurements deviate?
- [x] Yes, minor deviations are acceptable.
- [ ] No, the exact measurement must be adhered to.
- [ ] Only if the buyer agrees to the deviation.
- [ ] Only if the seller notifies the buyer in advance.
> **Explanation:** The 'more or less' clause allows a contract to remain valid despite minor deviations from the specified measurement.
### Can 'more or less' apply to both tangible and non-tangible goods?
- [x] Yes
- [ ] No
- [ ] Only tangible goods
- [ ] Only non-tangible goods
> **Explanation:** 'More or less' can apply to both tangible and non-tangible goods, permitting slight variations in quantity or measures.
### What principle supports negligible discrepancies in contracts?
- [x] De Minimis
- [ ] Res Ipsa Loquitur
- [ ] Caveat Emptor
- [ ] Bona Fide
> **Explanation:** The De Minimis principle supports negligible discrepancies in legal contexts, including contractual obligations.
### How should substantial deviations from 'more or less' stated amounts be handled?
- [x] Renegotiate or amend the contract
- [ ] Ignore them
- [ ] Automatically void the contract
- [ ] Only acknowledge in case of formal dispute
> **Explanation:** Substantial deviations necessitate renegotiation or amendments to the contract, keeping both parties informed and agreeable.
### When does 'more or less' not affect contract enforceability?
- [x] When deviations are minor and reasonable
- [ ] When lender approval is pending
- [ ] When not mentioned explicitly
- [ ] Under no circumstances
> **Explanation:** If deviations are minor and within reasonable limits, the 'more or less' clause ensures the contract remains enforceable.
### Is there a standard percentage for 'more or less' deviations?
- [ ] Always 5%
- [ ] Always 10%
- [ ] No standard percentage
- [x] It can vary by context and jurisdiction
> **Explanation:** There is no single standard percentage for 'more or less' deviations as it may vary depending on context, contract type, and jurisdiction.
### What document should specify the tolerance for 'more or less'?
- [x] The main contract or agreement
- [ ] An addendum after the fact
- [ ] Verbal assurances
- [ ] A letter of intent
> **Explanation:** The primary contract or agreement should specify the tolerance for 'more or less' to ensure clear terms from the outset.
### What is a critical factor when applying 'more or less' in contracts?
- [x] Reasonableness and intent
- [ ] Financial cost
- [ ] Market value
- [ ] Environmental impact
> **Explanation:** Reasonableness and the intent behind the 'more or less' clause are crucial in determining its applicability and enforceability.
Thank you for exploring the intricacies of the ‘more or less’ term in legal contracts and testing your knowledge with our comprehensive quiz questions. Continue advancing your expertise in the field of legal agreements!
