Word of the day: Force Majeure

Today’s word of the day is Force majeure. There are two meanings of this word, first meaning is a superior or irresistible force. It also means an event that cannot be reasonably predicted or controlled. In simple words, it is something big and unexpected that no one can stop.

What does Force Majeure mean in law?

In business and international law, force majeure is an extraordinary and unforeseen event that frees people in a contract from certain duties, according to Britannica. This means if something huge and unexpected happens, both sides may not have to follow some parts of the agreement.

Word history of Force Majeure

The phrase comes from French and means “superior force.” The first known use of “force majeure” in English was in 1883. Since then, it has become common in legal and business language.

What kind of events are called force majeure?

These events usually include wars. They also include natural disasters like earthquakes. Terrorist attacks can also be force majeure events. Epidemics are included too. Civil unrest like riots is also part of force majeure. All these events are not caused by the people who signed the contract.

Where did the term Force Majeure come from?

The term “force majeure” comes from French, and it literally means “superior force.” It started in French civil law under the Napoleonic Code, according to Britannica. Later, the idea was added to both common law and civil law systems in many countries.

Force majeure is a legal term for big, unexpected events like war, floods, or riots that no one can control. When these events happen, people or companies may not have to follow certain contract rules. The term started in French law and is now used worldwide in business agreements.

How to use word force majeure in sentences

1. The company could not deliver the goods because of a force majeure event like a flood.
2. The wedding was canceled due to force majeure after a sudden earthquake.
3. The airline used force majeure when bad weather stopped all flights.
4. The contract had a force majeure clause to protect both sides during war.
5. The factory closed because of force majeure when heavy rains damaged the building.

FAQs

Q1. What is force majeure in simple words?

Force majeure means a big unexpected event like war, flood, or earthquake that stops people or companies from completing a contract.

Q2. What events are included in a force majeure clause?

Force majeure usually includes natural disasters, wars, riots, terrorist attacks, and epidemics that no one can control.