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statute

STAT-choot /ˈstætʃuːt/

nounC1GRESATTOEFLIELTS

formallegal

A written law passed by a legislative body.

Distinguished from common law (which derives from judicial precedent) and constitutional law (which is fundamental law). Statutes are specific, codified laws.

The story behind the word. The word 'statute' comes from the Old French 'statut,' which itself is from the Latin 'statutum,' meaning 'an enactment' or 'a thing set up.' This is the past participle of 'statuere,' meaning 'to set up' or 'to establish.' So, a statute is literally a law that has been 'set up' or 'established' by a legislative body.

Word relationships

law: Broader term; 'statute' specifies a law created by a legislature.
act: Often used interchangeably with 'statute,' especially when referring to a specific legislative bill that has become law (e.g., 'The Civil Rights Act').

Commonly confused with

ordinance: An 'ordinance' is a law passed by a local government (e.g., city council), while a 'statute' is passed by a higher legislative body (e.g., state or national).

Word family

statutory (adjective): Required, permitted, or enacted by statute.

Collocations

enact a statute
repeal a statute
violate a statute
criminal statute
federal statute

Example sentences

"The new environmental statute imposes strict penalties for industrial pollution." Referring to a specific law.
"Unlike common law, which evolves through court decisions, a statute is a direct product of legislative action." Discussing the source of a law.

Memory hook

Think of a 'STATUE' standing firm, representing a law that is 'SET' in stone by the government. Statue is set law.

When not to use

Do not use 'statute' to refer to any general rule or regulation; it specifically refers to a formal law passed by a legislature.

Fun facts

Many legal systems have a 'statute of limitations,' which sets a maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated.
The term 'statutory rape' refers to sexual activity where one participant is below the age of consent, regardless of whether consent was given, because the law (statute) deems them unable to consent.