General Synonyms:
* Import: Emphasizes the significance or weight of the meaning.
* Sense: Highlights the underlying understanding or interpretation.
* Substance: Focuses on the core content or essence of the meaning.
* Intent: Specifically refers to the intended purpose or objective behind the meaning.
* Purpose: Similar to "intent," emphasizing the reason or goal behind the meaning.
* Effect: Focuses on the consequence or outcome of the meaning.
Legal-Specific Synonyms:
* Construction: Used when discussing the interpretation of a legal document or term.
* Interpretation: Refers to the process of understanding the meaning of a legal text.
* Significance: Emphasizes the importance or relevance of the meaning.
* Application: Highlights how the meaning is to be applied in a specific context.
* Scope: Indicates the extent or range of the meaning.
Phrases:
* The plain meaning of...
* The true intent of...
* The clear and unambiguous meaning of...
* The ordinary and accepted meaning of...
* The context in which... is used
When choosing a synonym, it's crucial to consider the specific context and the legal document or argument being discussed. The choice of wording should accurately reflect the intended meaning and be suitable for the audience, which in this case is a judge.