What is 'legalese'? An animated explainer

Is this the most complicated form of English?

'Legalese' – it's the language used by lawyers

and if you've ever read the small print,

you probably already know it can be confusing.

Not only can sentences be very long...

...they also often include terms in Latin...

...and old fashioned words like these:

Perhaps it's no wonder the Cambridge Dictionary

defines Legalese this way:

'language used by lawyers and in legal documents

that is difficult for ordinary people to understand'.

Don't worry – it's even hard for native speakers.

But why is it like this?

Many lawyers say it's to make legal documents

as precise as possible,

so there is no ambiguity,

while others admit it could be simplified.

Whatever you think, we suggest you learn a few key phrases,

like these from this series,

because learning the language of law

can help make you a better English speaker,

and maybe even help you understand your rights.

Just make sure you're sitting comfortably

before you begin.