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.

Blockaders even developed a legal argument to justify their actions, drawing on the common law defense of necessity, which allows someone to break a law to achieve a greater moral good.

From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026

It can be traced to English common law, which imposed a duty on parents to prevent foreseeable damage or harm done by their children.

From Slate • Mar. 5, 2026

Misconduct in Public Office is part of England's "common law" - which means judges came up with it hundreds of years ago, rather than Parliament.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 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

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