Small margins, big cost!

I’m sure I can’t be the only one who’s noticed that rearranging words can completely change the whole context of what you’re saying.

For example, there is a massive difference between

FREE ALCOHOL

And

ALCOHOL FREE

The same words, but in a different order, changing a dream into a nightmare!

But it’s equally possible to have the words in the right order and still misinterpret them.

My son told me the other day that the bar had been set very low on his last shift.  You might assume that that means that the standard he was expected to reach was not as high as on previous shifts.  However, he works for Weatherspoons, and he’s 6’2”, so my first thought (and first mental image) was of him having to bend over or kneel down in order to make drinks.  Either could have been right, but in this case, context was everything.

Which is why, even having things in writing, such as in a contract, can still mean that there will be ambiguity, particularly if you don’t have the agreement written or at least checked over by a professional.  For example, AI may have its place, but will it understand that setting a low bar could have two different interpretations?

If you are drafting or reviewing an agreement, think about how definitions, or even a definitions page plus an introductory section could help to avoid misunderstandings.  You may think that “working day” is sufficiently clear, but as I’m typing this on a Sunday afternoon and have been known to work late at night or early in the morning, does that mean that working day in my world is actually 24/7.  As I can call my bank on any day of the week, when is a bank holiday.  If it’s not defined, it could still be open to interpretation and dispute.

And, perhaps most importantly, who on earth wants to advertise alcohol free drinks!!!!

Kleyman & Co Solicitors.  The full service law firm.  Asking all the important questions.