Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to construe statutory words according to common usage.

Daniels v. the State of Texas · filed 2023-07-18(a)

Thus, we construe words according to common usage. TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a).

Section 311.011’s common-meaning rule applies when construing a municipal ordinance; its words determine the ordinance’s scope.

Rhino Real Estate Investments, Inc. and the Rhino Group, L.P. v. City of Runaway Bay, Texas · filed 2009-07-23(a)

Giving the words of Ordinance 430 their plain meaning, the ordinance simply amends appendix 1, section 26.00 of the code of ordinances to set a fee for building permits and inspections in the City’s ETJ. ... Nothing in the plain language of Ordinance 430 purports to extend the City’s building code to its ETJ.

Section 311.011(a) calls for statutory words to be read in context according to grammar and common usage.

Shipp v. State · filed 2009-08-18(a)

Statutory words are to be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). The phrase “commercial instrument” is not defined in Black’s Law Dictionary or any Texas Code. Shipp’s complaint and our research and analysis concerning it also lead us to conclude that the term “commercial instrument” is not a phrase in common use; accordingly, without a statutory definition of the term and the absence of a common use definition, we find it difficult to absolutely define.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and give them their common meaning.

In Re Wilkinson · filed 2009-04-10(a)

The Texas Government Code instructs that “words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code, § 311.011(a). ... The Texas Property Code’s use of the term “firearm” is not ambiguous and, under the common meaning of the term firearm, the Wilkinsons’ Guns are very clearly firearms.

Section 311.011 requires courts to use a word’s common meaning when construing a statute; in the context of a written contract, “executed” means signed.

San Jacinto County and San Jacinto Commissioners Court v. John Nunn, Sr. · filed 2006-09-28

In analyzing the enabling provision of section 262.007, we look to the common meaning of the term “executed” in the context of contracts, as required by section 311.011 of the Code Construction Act. ... Based upon the common usage of “executed” as reflected by Black’s and Webster’s, we hold that “executed,” as commonly used in the context of a written contract signed by the parties, means the date the contract is signed.

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words to be read in context and given their meaning under grammar and common usage.

the City of Galveston, Texas and Landry's Restaurants, Inc. v. the Texas General Land Office · filed 2006-04-20(a)

First, in interpreting statutory language, “[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a). As we previously discussed, in common usage, the term “lease” implies that rental payments may be the required consideration provided in exchange for the right to use and occupy certain property.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and construe them according to grammar and common usage.

Zaborac v. Texas Department of Public Safety · filed 2005-06-23(a)

According to section 311.011(a) of the government code, “Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” ... The word “detectable” has a plain and ordinary meaning that may be understood by a person of ordinary intelligence.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read words and phrases in context and construe them according to grammar and common usage.

Perez v. City of Dallas · filed 2005-12-13(a)

When interpreting a statute or municipal ordinance, we read words and phrases in context and construe them according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). ... Accordingly, because section 1716 is unambiguous, we construe the term “loading dock” according to its plain meaning.

Section 311.011 requires courts to give statutory words their common meaning.

Brenham Housing Authority v. Davies · filed 2005-03-24

BHA’s argument cannot overcome the plain language of the statute. We must give effect to a statute’s common meaning. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory words their common usage meaning.

Dornbusch v. State · filed 2005-03-24(a)

We adopt the word’s meaning in common usage, see Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1998), which is “to move by persuasion or influence” or “to bring about by influence.” Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 10th ed.1996.

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to read statutory words in context and according to grammar and common usage.

In the Interest of A.V. · filed 2003-07-03(a)

But to us, the phrase “two years from the date of filing the petition” reasonably indicates, consistent with the common usage of the word “from,” a prospective reading.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read undefined words in context according to grammar and common usage.

In Re Walkup · filed 2003-08-07(a)

When the Act or other law does not give a specific definition to a word, the Act states that “[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code ANN. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1998). We therefore look to the ordinary meaning of the word “date,” which Black’s Law Dictionary defines as “[t]he day when an event happened or will happen,” and we conclude that the term “date” does not generally include a specific time of day.

Section 311.011(a) calls for giving statutory words their common meaning; “paid” means compensated for services.

Housing Authority of the City of El Paso, Texas v. Rangel · filed 2004-02-05(a)

In construing the statute, we must determine and give effect to the Legislature's intent by looking at the statute's common meaning and presuming that the Legislature intended the plain meaning of its words. See Tex.Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)(Vernon 1998); National Liability and Fire Ins. Co. v. Allen, 15 S.W.3d 525, 527 (Tex. 2000). The ordinary and plain meaning of "pay" or "paid" is to compensate or give something in return for goods or services. ... Applying the plain and common meaning of the term "paid," we conclude that HACEP commissioners are not public employees under the Whistleblower Act.

Section 311.011(a) calls for statutory words to be read according to their plain, common meaning; “paid” means compensated in return for services.

Housing Authority of the City of El Paso v. Rangel · filed 2004-03-17(a)

In construing the statute, we must determine and give effect to the Legislature’s intent by looking at the statute’s common meaning and presuming that the Legislature intended the plain meaning of its words. ... Applying the plain and common meaning of the term “paid,” we conclude that HACEP commissioners are not public employees under the Whistleblower Act.

Section 311.011(a) calls for a term’s ordinary meaning unless the statute expresses a different meaning.

Amoroso v. Aldine Independent School District · filed 1991-02-28(a)

In construing a statute, this Court will apply the ordinary meaning of a term, unless a different meaning is expressed in the statute. Hopkins v. Spring Indep. School Dist., 736 S.W.2d 617, 619 (Tex.1987); Inwood North Homeowners’ Ass’n, Inc. v. Meier, 625 S.W.2d 742, 743 (Tex.Civ.App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 1981, no writ); Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1988). Generally, “may” is construed as permissive.

Section 311.011 directs courts to give statutory words their plain meaning.

State v. One 1985 Chevrolet · filed 1992-03-27

Under the rules of statutory construction, we must presume that: (1) the legislature never does a useless act, Hunter v. Fort Worth Capital Corp., 620 S.W.2d 547, 551 (Tex.1981), (2) words in a statute should be given their plain meaning, Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1988), and *781(3) the legislature intends a just and reasonable result.

Section 311.011(a) calls for the ordinary meaning of undefined statutory terms.

Bond v. Employees Retirement System of Texas · filed 1992-04-15(a)

Therefore, in construing the statute, we will apply the ordinary meaning of the terms therein.

Section 311.011 gives statutory words their acquired special meanings and undefined common words their ordinary meanings.

Smith v. State · filed 1987-09-28

Words in statutes are to be given any special meanings they have acquired, whether by legislative definition or technical usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(b) (Vernon Supp.1987). Common words not defined by statute are given their ordinary meanings.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to construe words in context according to grammar and common usage; the common meaning of “willful” includes “intentional.”

Wilson v. State · filed 1989-09-27(a)

The Code Construction Act provides that “[wjords and phrases should be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (1988). The common meaning of “willful” is “intentional” or “obstinately self-willed.”

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read undefined statutory words in context and give them their ordinary meaning under the rules of grammar and common usage.

Hernandez v. State · filed 1990-01-10(a)

When statutory words are not defined, the Code Construction Act prescribes that words and phrases under attack shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1989). ... In the instant case, the term “remain” can be construed according to its ordinary usage and is not so vague or indefinite as to prevent appellant from understanding the offense for which he is accused.

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words and phrases to be read in context and construed according to grammar and common usage.

Hawkins v. State · filed 1990-05-24(a)

Statutory words and phrases must be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage, according to the Code Construction Act. Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1988). Nothing within the language of the statute indicates that the legislature used “may” in anything but its usual sense.

Undefined statutory words are construed according to common usage.

Weirich v. Weirich · filed 1990-07-31

When words used in a statute are not defined in that statute, then such words shall be construed according to common usage. TEX.GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011 (Vernon 1988). ... Applying these definitions of aid, assist, retain and conceal to the evidence in the record, we hold that the above-referenced evidence is no evidence and insufficient evidence that Opal aided or assisted Ralph in retaining or concealing the children after the February 25, 1982, taking by Ralph.

Section 311.011(a) requires a statutory term to be construed in its context; a meaning drawn from the Tax Code does not necessarily govern its use in eminent domain proceedings.

G.P. Show Productions, Inc. v. Arlington Sports Facilities Development Authority, Inc. · filed 1994-03-23(a)

... we must construe this term in the context of eminent domain proceedings.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to construe an undefined word in an ordinance according to grammar and common usage.

Mayo v. State · filed 1994-05-12(a)

The ordinance does not define “display” in the context of conducting a business in an enterprise. However, we shall construe the word “display” according to rules of grammar and common usage. Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1988).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read an undefined statutory word in context and construe it according to grammar and common usage.

Regalado v. State · filed 1994-05-18(a)

The word dildo is not defined in the Penal Code. In such case, courts are to read the word in context and construe it according to rules of grammar and common usage. See Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) and (b) (Vernon 1988); Pettijohn v. State, 782 S.W.2d 866, 868 (Tex.Crim.App.1989).

Section 311.011(b) requires words with a technical or particular meaning to be construed according to that meaning.

Dinkins v. State · filed 1995-02-01(b)

Further, we find no merit in appellant’s vagueness claim because the Penal Code adequately limits those acts which constitute “murder.” The Code Construction Act provides that words having a technical or particular meaning must be construed according to that meaning. Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(b) (Vernon 1988).

Section 311.011 directs courts to read words without a technical meaning in context and according to grammar and common usage.

Salisbury v. State · filed 1993-12-16(a) and (b)

“Patently” is not specifically defined in § 42.07 and therefore has not acquired a particular or technical meaning. When a statutory term has not acquired a technical meaning, the term should be read in context and construed according to rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to read statutory words and phrases in context and construe them according to grammar and common usage.

Lane v. State · filed 1996-11-06(a)

In addition to definitions, a plain meaning analysis must include reading words and phrases in context and construing them in accordance with the rules of grammar and common usage. See Bingham, 913 S.W.2d at 209-210 (citing Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a)).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and construe them according to grammar and common usage.

Pruit v. Orr · filed 1999-04-01(a)

We are to construe this phrase by giving the words used their ordinary meaning, in the context of the subsection. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1998) (“Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.”); Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 312.002 (Vernon 1998) (“[W]ords shall be given their ordinary meaning.”).

Statutory words are read in context and construed according to grammar and common usage.

Carroll v. State · filed 1995-11-08(a)

Statutory words are to be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and give undefined words their common meaning.

Gonzalez v. State · filed 1997-08-20(a)

Words and phrases in a statute should be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1988) (Code Construction Act). ... The statute in question did not define “agreement” so it must be given its common or plain meaning as noted earlier.

Section 311.011 calls for undefined statutory words to be construed according to common usage.

University of Texas Law School v. Texas Legal Foundation · filed 1997-12-18

The Act does not define the meaning of the words “related to.” In this circumstance, we construe the words according to common usage.

Section 311.011(a) calls for clear and unambiguous statutory words to be given their plain and common meaning.

Mueller v. Beamalloy, Inc. · filed 1999-06-03(a)

When statutes are clear and unambiguous, we discern the legislature’s intent by according the words chosen their plain and common meaning and by giving effect to all of the statute’s terms.

Section 311.011 directs courts to give statutory words their plain meaning unless a statutory definition or another source gives them a particular meaning.

Texas Ass'n of School Boards, Inc. v. Ward · filed 2000-04-26

We give words in the statute their plain meaning unless they are given a particular meaning by statutory definition or otherwise.

Section 311.011 directs courts to give statutory words their plain meaning unless they have been given a particular meaning by definition or otherwise.

Nugent v. City of Houston · filed 2001-07-20

Words are to be given their plain meaning unless they have been given a particular meaning by statutory definition or otherwise. ... The court concludes that the plain and unambiguous meaning of the term “beginning position” in Chapter 143 includes “academy trainee” within its definition.

Section 311.011 gives statutory words their ordinary and plain meaning unless they are clearly shown to be used in another sense.

Brazeal v. State of Texas · filed 2001-09-17

Words used in a statute are given their ordinary and plain meaning unless clearly shown to be used in another sense.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and according to grammar and usage when determining their plain meaning.

Frieling v. State · filed 2002-01-17(a)

In determining the plain meaning of the language of a statute, “[w]ords and phrases should be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 1998); Dowthitt v. State, 931 S.W.2d 244, 258 (Tex. Crim. App. 1996).

Section 311.011 gives statutory words their ordinary meaning unless they are defined or have a particular or technical meaning.

Delgado v. Jim Wells County · filed 2002-05-31

Words in statutes have their ordinary meaning unless (1) the statute defines them, (2) they are connected with and used with reference to a particular trade or subject matter, or (3) are a term of art. ... Giving the word “report” its ordinary meaning, there is simply no evidence that Delgado gave an account of anything to Ranger Ramon.

Section 311.011 calls for statutory words to be read in their commonly understood, everyday sense.

Alba v. Nueces County Sheriff's Department · filed 2002-09-12

We use the commonly understood, everyday meaning of the word “suspended” when interpreting the statute.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to construe statutory words in context according to grammar and common usage; applying that rule, “furnish” permits mailing materials to opposing counsel.

Salazar v. Canales · filed 2002-08-22(a)

Further, the Texas Legislature has stated that words and phrases used in a statute should be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon Supp.2002). ... Further, we conclude that under the plain meaning of the statute sending the materials in the mail is an acceptable means of furnishing them.

Section 311.011(a) calls for courts to give statutory words their plain and ordinary meaning.

in the Interest of Scotty Morgan Henry and Shelby Leann Henry, Children · filed 2003-06-17(a)

In our analysis, we consider the plain and ordinary meaning of the statute's words and examine the entire statute, not only the questioned sections. Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005); Fitzgerald v. Advanced Spine Fixation Systems, Inc., 996 S.W.2d 864, 865 (Tex. 1999).

Section 311.011 directs courts to begin with the plain and common meaning of statutory words.

State of Texas v. Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland and Colonial American Casualty and Surety Company · filed 2004-01-29

When construing statutes, we first look to the plain and common meaning of the words used by the legislature.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read words in context and give undefined words their ordinary meaning according to grammar and common usage.

McCelvey v. State · filed 2004-09-30(a)

As used in the statute and the indictment, “adequate” modifies “service.” “Adequate” is not defined in the water code or penal code. It should be given its ordinary meaning. “Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.”

Section 311.011 directs courts to use the plain and common meaning of statutory words to determine legislative intent.

William McMillin and Mary Furse//Cross-Appellant, State Farm Lloyds v. State Farm Lloyds//Cross-Appellees, William McMillin and Mary Furse · filed 2005-08-26

We ascertain the legislature’s intent in the plain and common meaning of the words used. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011; Keng, 23 S.W.3d at 349.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read an undefined statutory term in context and give it its plain and ordinary meaning.

Schmidt v. State · filed 2006-02-02(a)

Applying the basic rules of statutory construction, when a statutory term is not directly defined, it is to be read in context and construed according to its plain and ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011 calls for courts to give clear, unambiguous statutory words their plain meaning.

Beedy v. State · filed 2006-04-27

When a statute is clear and unambiguous, we apply the plain meaning of its words. ... see Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 2005).

Section 311.011 calls for statutory words to be read according to their plain and common meaning.

Greg Abbott, Attorney General of the State of Texas v. North East Independent School District · filed 2006-05-12

We first look to the plain and common meaning of the words the legislature used.

Section 311.011 calls for statutory words to be read according to their plain and common meaning.

Abbott v. North East Independent School District · filed 2006-05-12

We first look to the plain and common meaning of the words the legislature used.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory words their plain meaning in context, using ordinary grammar and usage.

Stanford v. City of Lubbock and Lubbock Fire Fighter and Police Officer Civil Service Commission · filed 2007-07-26(a)

Words not defined in a statute are given their plain meaning, read in context, and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005).

Section 311.011(a) calls for undefined statutory words to be read in context and given their plain meaning under ordinary grammar and usage.

Geeslin v. State Farm Lloyds · filed 2008-05-22(a)

Words not defined in a statute are given their plain meaning, read in context, and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011 calls for undefined statutory words to be given their plain and common meaning unless the context requires a different construction.

Harrington v. State · filed 2008-09-03

In the absence of a statutory definition and a context requiring a different construction, we construe the statute's words according to their plain and common meaning.

Section 311.011 gives words their ordinary meaning unless they are used as terms of art or in a particular trade or subject matter.

Griffin v. Birkman · filed 2008-09-17

And words, unless used as a term of art or connected with a particular trade or subject matter, are given their ordinary meaning. ... The plain meaning of the word “expenditure” does not support Griffin’s assertion that an emergency expenditure must increase the budget.

Section 311.011 requires statutory words and phrases to be read in context according to grammar and common usage.

State v. Posey · filed 2009-10-20

The Texas Government Code requires that the plain meaning of phrases within a statute be our guide in interpreting a statutory provision: "Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage." See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 2005).

Section 311.011 directs courts to use the plain and common meanings of statutory words.

M.T.D. Environmental, L.L.P. v. City of Midland · filed 2010-05-13

We first look to the plain and common meaning of the words used by the legislature.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give an undefined statutory word its plain and ordinary meaning.

Saenz v. Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation, Inc. · filed 2012-07-25(a)

Because the term “sale” is not defined in chapter 74, we simply apply its plain and ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) calls for undefined words to be read according to their ordinary meaning in statutory context.

Cadena Comercial USA Corp. D/B/A Oxxo v. Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission · filed 2017-04-28(a)

Finally, because the Legislature has not provided specific definitions for many terms, we look to their plain and ordinary meaning, unless a different meaning is apparent from the context of the statute.

Section 311.011(a) calls for undefined statutory words to be given their common and ordinary meaning.

John Ward Hunt v. State · filed 2017-08-01(a)

“Agreement” is not defined in the statute, so we give the word its common and ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) calls for statutory words to be read in context and given their ordinary meaning.

Kilgore ISD v. Anderson · filed 2020-12-22(a)

To ascertain that intent, we look first to the plain and common meaning of the statute’s words. McIntyre, 109 S.W.3d at 745; Fitzgerald, 996 S.W.2d at 865; see TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011 (West 2013). ... The tax code does not provide a definition for “adopt.” Undefined terms in a statute are typically given their ordinary meaning, but if a different or more precise meaning is apparent from the term’s use in the context of the statue, we apply that meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read undefined statutory words in context and construe them according to grammar and common usage.

Rodgers v. State · filed 2021-03-30(a)

The term “refuse” is not defined in the Penal Code, but is not ambiguous, so we consider its plain ordinary meaning. In determining plain meaning, words and phrases must be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and usage.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory words their plain meaning.

Walker v. the State of Texas · filed 2022-02-09(a)

When a statute does not define the words used therein, we give the words their plain meaning. See Parker v. State, 985 S.W.2d 460, 464 (Tex. Crim. App. 1999); see also Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (“Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.”).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and construe them according to grammar and common usage.

Mason v. State · filed 2022-05-11(a)

To do so, the reviewing court focuses on the literal text of the statutory language in question, reading it in context and construing it “according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a).

Section 311.011(a) gives statutory terms the plain and ordinary meaning when the legislature has not defined them.

Ortiz v. the State of Texas · filed 2025-08-26(a)

Terms not specifically defined by the legislature are to be given their plain and ordinary meaning. Edwards v. State, 666 S.W.3d 571, 575 (Tex. Crim. App. 2023) (first citing Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a); and then citing State v. Bolles, 541 S.W.3d 128, 138 (Tex. Crim. App. 2017)).

Section 311.011 directs courts to apply the plain meaning of statutory language unless that meaning would produce an absurd result.

Menefee v. Kathryn and Jeremy Medlen · filed 2010-06-24

In other words, giving the language of subsection (f) its plain meaning, a suit that “could have been brought under this chapter against the governmental unit” necessarily means a suit that falls within the TTCA’s limited waiver of sovereign immunity. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to construe undefined statutory terms according to common usage.

Fuentes v. the State of Texas · filed 2025-07-30(a)

The statute does not define the terms “penetrate,” “sexual organ,” or “contact,” so we construe them “according to common usage.”

Undefined statutory words are read in context and construed according to grammar and common usage.

Fairlawn Assets, LLC, John Ferrante, and Jarrod Freeborn v. Barbara Booker, as Guardian of the Person and Estate of M.H. · filed 2020-05-07(a)

Words that are not defined in a statute are read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011 directs courts to give an undefined statutory word its meaning in common usage.

Jerilyn Ann Cerda, as Next Friend of Noel Doe v. Rjl Entertainment, Inc. D/B/A Club Cheetah · filed 2013-12-12

“Induce” is not defined by the penal code, so we adopt the word’s meaning in common usage.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to construe undefined statutory words in context according to grammar and common usage.

Fresh Coat, Inc. v. Parexlahabra, Inc. · filed 2014-02-20(a)

Under the Code Construction Act, the words of a statute that are not expressly defined are to be examined in context and in accord with “the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a).

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to read undefined statutory words in context according to grammar and common usage.

Crosstex NGL Pipeline, L.P. v. Reins Road Farms-1, Ltd. · filed 2013-05-23(a)

Courts construing the terms of a statute are to examine the words of a statute that are not expressly defined in context and in accord with “the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a).

Section 311.011 directs courts to give undefined statutory words their common meaning unless they have acquired a technical meaning; “operate” in the DWI statute is a common term.

Kirsch, Scott Alan · filed 2012-01-25

We have explained that jurors may “freely read [undefined] statutory language to have any meaning which is acceptable in common parlance.” Denton, 911 S.W.2d at 390; see also Medford v. State, 13 S.W.3d 769, 771-72 (Tex. Crim. App. 2000).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read undefined statutory words in context and give them their common meaning.

Watson v. State of Texas · filed 2011-01-27(a)

Instead, the words must be read in the context in which they are used and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined statutory word to be interpreted in context according to common usage.

Bell v. State · filed 2010-10-26(a)

The penal code does not define the word “induce.” We determine its meaning given its context and the rules of common usage.

Section 311.011(a) calls for undefined statutory words to be read in context and given their plain meaning under the rules of grammar and common usage.

Mike Geeslin, Commissioner of Insurance, and Texas Department of Insurance v. State Farm Lloyds · filed 2008-05-22(a)

Words not defined in a statute are given their plain meaning, read in context, and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory words their plain meaning in context, using grammar and common usage.

Botello v. State · filed 2008-05-22(a)

Words not defined in a statute are given their plain meaning, read in context, and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011 requires an undefined statutory word to be given its common meaning unless it has acquired a technical or particular meaning.

LeClear v. State · filed 2007-10-16

Because the Texas Penal Code does not define the term “offense”; see Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 1.07 (Vernon 2003), the term must be defined by common usage unless the word has acquired a technical or particular meaning.

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words to be read in context according to common usage; dictionaries may establish that usage.

Green v. State · filed 2007-12-05(a)

This provision states: “Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov.Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). Dictionaries determine a word’s common use.

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to read an undefined statutory phrase in context and construe it according to grammar and common usage.

Green v. State · filed 2004-05-27(a)

Subtitle B of the occupations code does not define “psychological harm.” Thus, we must read the phrase in context and construe it according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to use definitions that comport with common usage when a statutory phrase is undefined.

Opinion No. · filed 2000-03-09(a)

The statute itself does not define the phrase "change in status." In such a case, we must apply definitions that comport with common usage. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

Section 311.011 calls for undefined statutory terms to be construed according to their ordinary meaning.

Mount Pleasant Independent School District v. Estate of Lindburg Ex Rel. Lindburg · filed 1989-02-15

However, because the legislature failed to define the phrase “operation or use,” it must be construed according to the ordinary meaning of the terms “operation” and “use.” Satterfield v. Satterfield, 448 S.W.2d 456, 459 (Tex.1969); see also Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1988).

Undefined statutory terms are construed according to grammar and common usage.

Rezapour v. State · filed 1990-04-10

Accordingly, we must apply the rules of grammar and common usage to determine the meaning of the statute. Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1988).

Section 311.011(a) gives an undefined statutory term its common meaning in ordinary usage.

Garcia v. State · filed 1990-06-22(a)

The definitions in § 46.01 are expressly limited to chapter 46 of the Penal Code. Since “firearm” is not defined elsewhere, it is given its common meaning from common usage.

Section 311.011(a) requires an undefined statutory word to be given its ordinary meaning.

Bullock v. Marathon Oil Co. · filed 1990-11-28(a)

Since “sale” is not defined, it must be given its ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011 directs courts to read undefined statutory phrases in context under the rules of grammar and give them their common meaning.

Transwestern Pipeline Co. v. Blackburn · filed 1992-05-29

Neither of the phrases is defined in the Act. Therefore, we will consider the phrases in context according to the rules of grammar and apply the meaning of their common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1988).

Section 311.011 directs courts to use the common meaning of an undefined statutory term.

Cullen v. State · filed 1992-06-24

The appellant, the State, and the trial court all agreed that “destroy” is not statutorily defined. It follows that the term’s meaning should be determined by its common usage. See Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (1988).

Section 311.011 calls for grammar and common usage to determine the meaning of a statutory term undefined by the relevant codes or case law.

Onofre v. State · filed 1992-11-25

Because.the term “negotiate” is not defined in the Health and Safety Code, or in the Penal Code, or by caselaw definition, we apply the rules of grammar and common usage to determine its meaning.

Undefined statutory terms receive their ordinary everyday meaning; “mouth” includes the tongue.

Montoya v. State · filed 1993-01-27(a)

Statutory terms that are not defined in the statute are given their ordinary everyday meaning. ... Common sense and common usage leads us to conclude that the legislature intended the word “mouth” to include its parts, such as the teeth and tongue.

Section 311.011(a) gives undefined statutory words their ordinary meaning unless the statute clearly shows they were used in another sense.

Flowers v. State · filed 1994-12-22(a)

The word “believing” is not defined in Section 31.03 or elsewhere in the Penal Code, and we have found no decision construing the meaning of the word in the context of Section 31.03(b)(3). When words in a statute or ordinance are not defined they are ordinarily given their plain meaning without construction of penal laws or laws on other subjects, unless the statute or ordinance clearly shows that they were used in some other sense. Daniels v. State, 754 S.W.2d 214, 219 (Tex.Crim.App.1988); Tex.Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1988).

Section 311.011 directs courts to use grammar and common usage to determine the meaning of undefined statutory terms.

Sauceda v. State · filed 1993-06-29(a)

The Code does not define the terms “finance” or “invest.” We apply the rules of grammar and common usage to determine their meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and according to grammar and common usage; an undefined term can be sufficiently definite when read that way.

Ex Parte: Shawn Paul Anderson · filed 1995-06-28(a)

When read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage, the term is not vague and indefinite.

Section 311.011(a) gives undefined statutory terms their ordinary meaning.

Thomas v. State · filed 1995-08-17(a)

Statutory terms which are not defined are given their ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011 calls for an undefined statutory word to be given its commonly understood, everyday meaning.

Burleson v. State · filed 1996-12-18

The legislature has not defined “occur”; thus, we use the commonly understood, everyday definition of the word when interpreting the statute.

Section 311.011 requires courts to interpret undefined statutory terms by the rules of grammar and common usage.

Walker v. State · filed 1997-09-11

The word "collaborate" is not defined in section 71.01(a). When terms of a statute are not defined, courts must interpret them by the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (West 1988); Bynum v. State, 767 S.W.2d 769, 774 (Tex. Crim. App. 1989). Given its common usage, "collaborate" means to work together in a joint project, to cooperate and assist.

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to give an undefined statutory phrase its common meaning.

Surgitek, Inc. v. Adams · filed 1997-10-09(a)

The legislature did not define “essential need,” so we must give the phrase its common meaning. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1988).

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined statutory term to be given its common and ordinary meaning.

John Sharp, Comptroller of Public Accounts for the State of Texas, and Dan Morales, Attorney General of the State of Texas v. F. W. Gartner Company · filed 1998-06-18(a)

As there is no definition of the term “use” in the Code, we will apply its common and ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined statutory term to be given its common and ordinary meaning.

Cornyn v. Universe Life Insurance Co. · filed 1999-04-15(a)

As there is no definition of the term “use” in article 4.11, we apply its common and ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) calls for construing an undefined statutory term according to common usage.

X. L. Jefferson, Jr. v. State · filed 2001-12-20(a)

The Health and Safety Code does not define “open to the public.” Thus, we construe the term according to common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 1998).

Section 311.011 calls for the commonly understood, everyday meaning of an undefined word when construing a municipal ordinance.

Rosenblatt v. City of Houston · filed 2000-10-19

The Houston City Council did not define direct line of sight in the ordinance; thus we use the commonly understood, everyday definition of the word direct when interpreting the ordinance.

Section 311.011(a) calls for the usual meaning of “have resided” when there is no indication the Legislature intended a technical meaning; the phrase means living together in the same household.

Texas Department of Protective & Regulatory Services v. Sherry · filed 2001-04-26(a)

Although the law sometimes gives a technical meaning to the noun “residence,” it does not similarly interpret the verb “resided,” and there is no indication that the Legislature meant anything more than the usual meaning of those words.

Section 311.011 gives an undefined statutory term its common meaning unless it has acquired a technical or particular meaning.

Deleon II, Orlando v. State · filed 2003-03-06

The Code Construction Act provides that when a statute does not define a term it must be given its common meaning, except in the case of words and phrases that have acquired a technical or particular meaning.

Section 311.011 directs courts to give undefined statutory phrases their ordinary and common meaning.

in the Matter of N.S., a Juvenile · filed 2004-02-11

However, that precise phrase is not defined in the Juvenile Justice Code. Accordingly, we must apply the ordinary and common meaning of the phrase. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998); City of Austin v. Sw. Bell Tel. Co., 92 S.W.3d 434, 442 (Tex. 2002).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read an undefined statutory phrase in context and construe it according to grammar and common usage.

Green v. State · filed 2004-06-24(a)

Subtitle B of the occupations code does not define “psychological harm.” Thus, we must read the phrase in context and construe it according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and give undefined words their ordinary meaning under the rules of grammar and common usage.

McCelvey v. State · filed 2004-08-26(a)

“Adequate” is not defined in the water code or penal code. It should be given its ordinary meaning. “Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 1998); Ex parte Anderson, 902 S.W.2d 695, 699 (Tex. App.—Austin 1995, pet. ref’d). “Adequate” is normally defined as “able to satisfy a requirement; suitable.” American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language (1973) at 15. This is the common usage and understanding of the word.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to interpret undefined statutory terms according to their common usage.

Doyle v. State · filed 2004-10-07(a)

Given our commitment to interpret statutory language “according to the rules of grammar and common usage,” Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 1998), we cannot read “tampers with” as limited by “damages, defaces, or renders ... inoperable.”

Undefined statutory words are given their plain meaning in context, according to grammar and common usage.

In Re the Commitment of Lowe · filed 2004-12-09(a)

Words not defined in a statute are given their plain meaning, read in context, and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

An undefined statutory term is construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Villasan v. O'ROURKE · filed 2005-05-26(a)

The term “irrevocable” is not defined by the statute, and is therefore construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). “Irrevocable” is defined as “incapable of being recalled, or revoked: past recall: unalterable.”

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give an undefined statutory term its meaning in common usage.

Scott v. State · filed 2005-09-08(a)

Since the term “induce” is not defined by the Texas Penal Code, we must adopt the word’s meaning in common usage.

Section 311.011(a) calls for code words to be read in context according to grammar and common usage; undefined words receive their ordinary meaning.

Jones v. State · filed 2005-11-10(a)

When we interpret a code enacted by the Legislature, we read words and phrases in context and construe them according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a). ... Accordingly, we look to the ordinary meaning of the words “proceed” and “seek.”

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to construe undefined statutory terms according to grammar and common usage.

In Re Narvaiz · filed 2006-05-11(a)

Since none of the terms in the phrase “actual care, control, and possession” are defined by statute, the terms are construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005).

Section 311.011(a) calls for undefined statutory words to be given their plain meaning in context, according to grammar and common usage.

Stanford v. City of Lubbock · filed 2007-07-26(a)

Words not defined in a statute are given their plain meaning, read in context, and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011 calls for statutory terms to receive their established meaning unless the statute indicates a different meaning.

Burnett-Dunham v. Spurgin · filed 2007-12-11

We presume the legislature knows the meaning of “final judgment,” and there is nothing within the statute implying the legislature intended “final judgment” to have a different meaning within the context of the family code. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011.

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to construe undefined statutory words according to their ordinary meaning.

Indemnity Insurance Co. v. City of Garland · filed 2008-04-04(a)

Instead, we must construe words used in a statute according to their ordinary meaning unless the statute defines those words.

Undefined statutory words are construed according to their ordinary meaning.

Indemnity Insurance Co. v. City of Garland · filed 2008-06-24(a)

Instead, we must construe words used in a statute according to their ordinary meaning unless the statute defines those words. ... Because “against” is not a defined term in the TTCA, we construe it according to its ordinary meaning, which is “in opposition to.”

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read undefined words in procedural rules in context and according to grammar and common usage.

Goodman v. Wachovia Bank, National Ass'n · filed 2008-08-13(a)

Rule 107 does not define “verified.” Nevertheless, when a procedural rule does not give a specific definition to a word, the Code Construction Act states that “[wjords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.”

Section 311.011 directs courts to give undefined statutory terms their common meaning.

Holz v. State · filed 2009-09-30

Because the term "destroy" is not statutorily defined in the Texas Penal Code, the term's meaning is determined by its common usage.

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined statutory phrase to be given its common, plain meaning.

Chacon v. ANDREWS DISTRIBUTING CO. LTD. · filed 2009-08-13(a)

“Intentional disregard” is not defined in the statute or our case law; therefore, we must look to the phrase’s common usage and accord it a plain meaning. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005); see e.g., McIntyre v. Ramirez, 109 S.W.3d 741, 745 (Tex.2003).

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined statutory term to be given its ordinary or common meaning.

Harris County Appraisal District v. Wilkinson · filed 2010-08-05(a)

When the legislature has not defined a term or phrase, we give it its ordinary or common meaning.

Undefined words are read in context and construed according to grammar and common usage.

Smith v. State of Texas · filed 2011-01-27(a)

Instead, the words must be read in the context in which they are used and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). The undefined terms about which appellant complains – ―unprovoked‖ and ―attack‖ – relate to the actions of the dog, not the conduct of the person, and are such that they may be given their common meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to use grammar and common usage to construe undefined statutory terms.

Woodard v. State · filed 2011-03-10(a)

Because the penal code does not define “actual care, custody, control, or management,” we refer to the rules of grammar and common usage to construe the terms.

Section 311.011 directs courts to use the common meaning of undefined statutory terms.

City of Oak Ridge North v. Mendes · filed 2011-03-24

In the absence of statutory definitions of these terms, and in accord with the requirements of the Code Construction Act, we look to the common meaning of the phrase “properly executed” to determine its meaning.

Undefined statutory terms are read in context and given their common meaning under the rules of grammar and common usage.

Smith v. State · filed 2011-06-15(a)

Instead, the words must be read in the context in which they are used and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). The undefined terms about which appellant complains — “unprovoked” and “attack” — relate to the actions of the dog, not the conduct of the person, and are such that they may be given their common meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read undefined statutory words in context according to grammar and common usage.

Watson v. State · filed 2011-06-15(a)

Instead, the words must be read in the context in which they are used and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). The undefined terms about which appellant complains — “unprovoked” and “attack” — relate to the actions of the dog, not the conduct of the person, and are such that they may be given their common meaning.

Undefined statutory terms are given their ordinary meaning.

in the Interest of S. W., a Child · filed 2011-06-30

When a statute does not define a term, we apply the term’s ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory words their ordinary and common meaning; dictionary definitions may help determine that meaning.

Smith v. State · filed 2012-01-20(a)

The words “false” and “fictitious” are not defined in the statute, so we must give them their ordinary and common meaning. In determining the ordinary and common meaning of an undefined word in a statute, we may consider dictionary definitions.

Section 311.011 directs courts to give undefined statutory terms their common meaning unless they have acquired a technical meaning; “operate” is a common term.

Kirsch, Scott Alan · filed 2012-01-25

Our cases have consistently held that “operate” is a common term that has not acquired a technical meaning and may be interpreted according to its common usage.

Undefined statutory terms are read in context and given their plain and ordinary meaning under the rules of grammar and common usage.

Berry v. State · filed 2012-05-09(a)

In interpreting the meaning of an undefined statutory term, we apply the plain and ordinary meaning of the words, reading them in context and construing them in accordance with the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined term to be given its common meaning, which dictionaries can help determine.

Absher v. Michael Zimmer and Erin Zimmer · filed 2012-12-05(a)

The ordinance at issue here utilizes the term “to let,” which is not defined in the ordinance; therefore, we give it its common meaning. See TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a) (West 2005) (terms not specifically defined by statute are construed according to rules of grammar and common usage). Dictionaries determine a word’s common use.

Section 311.011 directs courts to construe an undefined Penal Code term according to grammar and common usage unless it has a technical or particular meaning.

Pena v. State · filed 2012-12-20

There is no contention that the term normal use has acquired any technical or particular meaning which would require anything other than construction according to the rules of grammar and common usage. See TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011.

Section 311.011 gives undefined statutory words their meaning under grammar and common usage unless they have acquired a technical or particular meaning. Under that rule, a person operates a truck by causing it to function.

State v. Saenz · filed 2012-12-28

Statutorily undefined words and phrases must be “construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Words and phrases that have acquired a technical or particular meaning . . . shall be construed accordingly.” ... It is apparent that Saenz was “operating” the truck when—as observed by Officer Bintliff—he was in the driver’s seat with the key in the ignition, the engine running, and the vehicle in reverse gear.

An undefined statutory term is construed according to its plain, common meaning unless a legislative definition, context, or absurd result calls for a different reading.

Brent Timmerman D/B/A Timmerman Custom Builders v. Richard Dale, J. · filed 2013-03-27(a)

We rely on the plain meaning of the text, unless a different meaning is supplied by legislative definition or is apparent from the context, or unless such a construction leads to absurd results. City of Rockwall v. Hughes, 246 S.W.3d 621, 625-26 (Tex. 2008); see TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011 (West 2005). ... To properly construe an undefined statutory term, we begin with the plain meaning of the word.

Section 311.011(a) calls for undefined statutory terms to be read in their ordinary and common usage.

Perez v. State · filed 2013-10-11(a)

In the absence of statutory definition, we use the term in its ordinary and common usage. See TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a) (West 2013).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give an undefined statutory term its common meaning.

Edwards Aquifer Authority v. Bragg · filed 2013-11-13(a)

The Act does not define “implementation”; therefore, we give it its common meaning. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 2005) (terms not specifically defined by statute are construed according to rules of grammar and common usage).

Under Section 311.011(a), “nongovernmental purpose” takes its common meaning: an activity or function unrelated to a governmental function.

Tidwell v. State · filed 2013-12-04(a)

According to Section 311.011 of the Texas Government Code, undefined terms shall be “construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” ... The parties have not cited any authority indicating that the phrase “nongovernmental purpose” has a technical or specialized meaning and we have found none. ... In common parlance, the phrase “nongovernmental purpose” means an activity or function which is not related to or associated with a governmental function.

Undefined statutory words are construed according to their common, everyday usage.

Hanna v. State · filed 2014-04-09

When interpreting a statute, an undefined word or phrase should be construed and understood according to its common, every day usage25 According to Black’s Law Dictionary, a “victim” is a “person who is the object of a crime... .”26 But can there be a victim, for purposes of restitution, when the defendant is charged with a “victimless crime”?

Section 311.011(a) calls for statutory words to receive their common meaning when the Legislature has not given them a technical or particular meaning.

Agbeze v. State · filed 2014-07-25(a)

The Legislature did not attach a technical or particular meaning to “scheme” or “continuing course of conduct”; accordingly we give the words their common meaning.

An undefined statutory term is construed according to its ordinary meaning in common usage.

Ryser v. State · filed 2014-11-25(a)

Thus, the jury was to use the ordinary meaning of the term—not a special legal definition—and that definition was found in the dictionary used by the juror.

Undefined statutory words are construed according to their ordinary meaning.

Ryser, Drew · filed 2014-12-30(a)

The statute does not define the term “mistreatment,” and neither did the jury charge. Thus, the jury was to use the ordinary meaning of the term—not a special legal definition—and that definition was found in the dictionary used by the juror.

Section 311.011(a) calls for the common meaning of statutory terms when the Legislature has given them no technical or particular meaning.

Agbeze v. State · filed 2014-09-18(a)

The Legislature did not attach a technical or particular meaning to “scheme” or “continuing course of conduct”; accordingly we give the words their common meaning.

Jurors may apply their ordinary understanding of an undefined common term without a limiting definition in the charge.

Wilson v. State · filed 2015-03-31

As a common term, the jury was entitled to rely on its understanding of “repeated.” See id. Thus, similar to the challenged definition in Kirsch, the proffered definition would have impermissibly confined the jury’s understanding of the term and improperly focused them on the frequency of the calls and the length of time between them, constituting an improper comment on the weight of the evidence. Accordingly, we hold that the trial court correctly rejected the proffered definition.

Section 311.011 gives an undefined common word its ordinary meaning; jurors may rely on that meaning without a limiting definition.

Wilson, Elisa Merrill · filed 2015-05-27

The Court looked to the Code Construction Act for guidance, which provides that statutorily undefined words and phrases shall be “construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Kirsch, 357 S.W.3d at 650 (quoting TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011). ... As a common term, the jury was entitled to rely on its understanding of “repeated.” See id. Thus, similar to the challenged definition in Kirsch, the proffered definition would have impermissibly confined the jury’s understanding of the term and improperly focused them on the frequency of the calls and the length of time between them, constituting an improper comment on the weight of the evidence. Accordingly, we hold that the trial court correctly rejected the proffered definition. See Kirsch, 357 S.W.3d at 652.

Undefined statutory terms are construed according to their common usage.

Baker v. Baker · filed 2015-06-25(a)

“Physical abuse” is undefined, which means that we construe it according to its common usage.

Section 311.011 allows jurors to apply the common meaning of an undefined statutory term that has no technical meaning, without a special definition in the jury charge.

Wilson, Elisa Merrill · filed 2015-05-26

Words that have a technical or particular legal meaning may require definition in the charge, but common terms that have not acquired a technical meaning and may be interpreted according to their common usage need not be defined. ... As a common term, the jury was entitled to rely on its understanding of “repeated.”

Section 311.011 directs courts interpreting an undefined statutory term to consider any legislative definition or technical meaning before using its plain and common meaning.

Mitchell v. State · filed 2015-08-31

Further, in accordance with Section 311.011 of the Texas Government Code, when determining the meaning of an undefined term used in a statute, a court should first look to “definitions prescribed by the Legislature and any technical or particular meaning the words have acquired” in accordance with the construction, and if no such meaning is apparent, then to “their plain and common meaning[.]”13 Hughes, 246 S.W.3d at 625-26; see also Greater Houston P'ship v. Paxton, __ S.W.3d ___, No. 13-0745, 2015 WL 3978138, at *5 (Tex. June 26, 2015) (“Undefined terms in a statute are typically given their ordinary meaning, but if a different or more precise definition is apparent from the term’s use in the context of the statute, we apply that meaning.”).

Section 311.011 directs courts to construe undefined statutory phrases according to grammar and common usage.

Robert Michael Arteaga, Jr. v. State · filed 2015-10-22

“Prohibited from marrying” is not defined in any section of the penal code. Since no definition was available within the penal code, “prohibited from marrying” should have been determined according to the “rules of grammar and common usage.”

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words and phrases to be read in context according to grammar and common usage.

Ex Parte Justin River Carter · filed 2015-08-31(a)

Statutory words and phrases are to be “read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a); see Tex. Penal Code § 1.05(b) (making section 311.011 applicable to Texas Penal Code).

When a statutory word has more than one common meaning, the meaning most consistent with its statutory context applies.

Robert Westerburg, Administrator of the Estate of R.D. West A/K/A Randy Dixon Westerburg v. Western Royalty Corporation · filed 2015-12-11(a)

When a word has more than one common meaning, we apply the meaning most consistent with its statutory context.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give an undefined statutory term its common meaning.

2004 Dodge Ram 1500 TX LP CPL1988 and 2000 Buick TX LP CV1N817 v. State · filed 2016-08-26(a)

The forfeiture statute does not define “possession,” so we give the term its common meaning. See Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a); City of Rockwall v. Hughes, 246 S.W.3d 621, 625 (Tex. 2008).

Undefined statutory terms receive their plain, commonly accepted meanings.

Ex Parte Derek Ty Poe · filed 2016-04-20(a)

We begin by looking to the language of the statute and giving terms their plain meaning. See Parker, 985 S.W.2d at 464; see also Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a).

Undefined statutory words are examined in context according to grammar and common usage.

Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District, Richard J. Tramm, Sam W. Baker, M. Scott Weisinger, Jim Stinson, John D. Bl · filed 2017-02-02(a)

Under the Code Construction Act, if the words of a statute are not expressly defined, the words used in the statute are to be examined in context and in accord with “the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 2013). ... Finally, our construction of section 36.066(a) is consistent with the common meaning of the terms “official votes” and “official actions,” as neither term is statutorily defined.

Section 311.011(a) calls for dictionary definitions to give undefined statutory terms their common meanings.

Collins v. State · filed 2017-03-29(a)

When the Legislature does not specifically define a term used in a statute, we apply the definitions that are found in dictionaries to give words their commonly used meanings.

Undefined statutory terms receive their ordinary meaning unless the statute indicates a different meaning or that meaning would produce absurd results.

Harris County Appraisal District v. Texas Workforce Commission · filed 2017-05-12(a)

It is true that when a statute does not define a term, the common, ordinary meaning of the term applies unless a contrary meaning is apparent from the statute’s language or the common meaning would lead to absurd or nonsensical results.

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined statutory term to be read according to its plain and common meaning.

in Re Estate of Timothy Glen Chapman · filed 2017-11-09(a)

When a term is not defined in a statute, we look to its plain and common meaning and how it is commonly used. See McIntyre v. Ramirez, 109 S.W.3d 741, 745 (Tex. 2003); see also TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a) (West 2013).