common law

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Justice Elena Kagan said the administration was seeking to undo a legal tradition of birthright citizenship that dates back to English common law.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

It’s true that our common law and constitutional precedents have long protected parents’ relationship with their children—and in our view, with good reason.

From Slate • Mar. 12, 2026

In the modern era, the British heritage of common law, freedom of speech and personal virtue didn’t constrain innovation but produced it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

Under Islamic law, which operates alongside common law in Pakistan, the family of a killed relative can accept financial compensation from the perpetrators in exchange for forgiveness, leaving them free from prosecution.

From Barron's • Oct. 13, 2025

Congress had moved gradual emancipation off its political agenda; its decision in the spring of 1790 became a precedent with the force of common law.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis