sananmukaisuus

Sananmukaisuus refers to the principle of adhering strictly to the literal meaning of words, particularly in legal or contractual contexts. It emphasizes that the exact phrasing of a document or statement should be interpreted without adding external assumptions, intentions, or common understandings that are not explicitly stated. This approach prioritizes the explicit text over any perceived or implied meaning.

In legal interpretation, sananmukaisuus suggests that if a contract or law is clear and unambiguous in its wording, that wording should be followed precisely. Judges and legal professionals applying this principle will avoid looking for hidden meanings or considering what the parties might have intended if it contradicts the plain language used. The goal is to ensure predictability and certainty in contractual and legal obligations.

However, strict sananmukaisuus can sometimes lead to outcomes that seem unfair or unintended. Critics argue that it can ignore the spirit of an agreement or lead to absurd results when literal interpretation clashes with common sense or the presumed intent of the parties. Therefore, many legal systems balance sananmukaisuus with other principles of interpretation, such as the principle of reasonableness or the search for the parties' actual common intention. The application of sananmukaisuus can vary significantly depending on jurisdiction and the specific context of the document being interpreted.