Finding Definitions in Cases

During research it is sometimes important and/or imperative to find a definition of a word or phrase. A great terms and connectors (Boolean) search for you to use is: your term /10 mean! OR defin! OR interpret! This then will get you the cases that have your term or phrase within ten words of words that begin with “mean” (meaning, meant, means, etc.), or “defin” (defined, definition, etc.), or “interpret” (interpreted, interpretation, etc.). You can use this search in Lexis, Westlaw or Bloomberg.

WestlawNext also offers the words & phrases field to search for judicial definitions of words or phrases. In WestlawNext, you can simply type in wp(your phrase or term) and remember to put your phrases in quotes. This field is also available as a fill in the box when you are in a case law only source under the “Advanced” link.

Readers may also what to consult our great research guide: Bloomberg Law, Lexis and Westlaw Compared for more tips.