Origin: Latin suffix -tion
Jurisdiction has 3 different meanings across 1 category:
(law) the right and power to interpret and apply the law
"courts having jurisdiction in this district"
in law; the territory within which power can be exercised
"The court ruled that it lacked jurisdiction because the crime occurred outside its territorial boundaries."
The power, right, or authority to interpret and apply the law.
"The state supreme court clarified that its jurisdiction extended only to interpreting local statutes, leaving federal laws outside its reach."
In plain English: Jurisdiction is the official area where a specific court has the power to make legal decisions.
"The court ruled that this case fell under its jurisdiction because the accident happened within the city limits."
Usage: Jurisdiction refers to the specific geographic area or legal scope where a government or court has the authority to make decisions. Use this term when describing which entity is empowered to handle a particular case or issue, not as a synonym for general power or control.
The word jurisdiction comes from the Latin phrase ius dicere, which literally means "to say what is right." It entered English to describe the legal authority of a court or official to make decisions and enforce laws within a specific area.