C2idiomformalpoliticsIELTS-friendly
the letter of the law
USUK
the exact words of a law, rather than its general purpose
Often contrasted with 'the spirit of the law'. Used in law, politics and workplace rules.
In context
The company followed the letter of the law but ignored its spirit.
Judges must sometimes look beyond the letter of the law to reach a fair decision.
More idioms about politics
- a double standarda rule applied more strictly to one group than to another
- a grey areaa situation where the rules are unclear, so nobody is sure what is allowed
- a hidden agendaa secret reason or plan behind what someone says or does
- a hot potatoa difficult issue that people disagree about and nobody wants to deal with
- a lame ducka politician or government with little real power, often near the end of a term in office