Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011

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

Dr. Eric VanderWerff. D.C. v. the Travelers Indemnity Company of Connecticut and Texas Department of Insurance-Division · filed 2018-06-28(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) requires an undefined statutory term to be given its common meaning.

CPS Energy v. Public Utility Commission · filed 2017-08-31(a)

PURA does not define “charge”; therefore, we must give the term its common meaning.

An undefined statutory word bears its conventional meaning.

Curry v. State · filed 2018-05-08(a)

"Accident" is not statutorily defined and therefore bears its conventional meaning. See TEX. GOV'T CODE § 311.011(a).

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

State v. Zuniga · filed 2018-09-27(a)

Without statutory definitions, courts have relied on the common, ordinary meaning of alter, conceal, and destroy in the context of section 37.09 and have determined that those words are not variable or indeterminable in meaning. See Zuniga, 512 S.W.3d at 907; see also TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a); Williams, 270 S.W.3d at 146. We do likewise.

Section 311.011(a) calls for an undefined word in a statute or regulation to be given its ordinary meaning.

Instill Corporation v. Glenn Hegar, Comptroller of Public Accounts of the State of Texas And Ken Paxton, Attorney Genera · filed 2019-05-31(a)

Because “provide” is not defined by statute or regulation, we must assume the Comptroller intended to denote its ordinary meaning. See Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a).

Section 311.011(a) permits jurors to give an undefined statutory word a meaning accepted in common usage; moving evidence does not necessarily constitute altering it.

Ransier v. State · filed 2019-07-16(a)

“Alter” is not defined by the statute, see Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 37.09, and jurors are free to interpret undefined statutory language to have “any meaning which is acceptable in common parlance.” State v. Bolles, 541 S.W.3d 128, 138 (Tex. Crim. App. 2017) (quoting Kirsch v. State, 357 S.W.3d 645, 650 (Tex. Crim. App. 2012)); see Code Construction Act, 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 calls for an undefined statutory term to be given its ordinary meaning.

Chacon v. Gribble · filed 2019-11-27

Because the term “history” is not defined in the Family Code, we give the term its ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) permits courts to use common dictionaries to determine the ordinary meaning of undefined statutory words.

Guillory v. State · filed 2020-01-15(a)

To do so, we look to commonly used dictionaries since they contain definitions that explain how words are commonly used.

Section 311.011(a) calls for the common meaning of an undefined statutory term.

Enterprise Crude GP LLC and Enterprise Crude Pipeline, LLC v. Sealy Partners, LLC and Sealy Partners No. 3, LP · filed 2020-11-17(a)

As with any statutory term the legislature leaves undefined, we look to the word’s common meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory terms their ordinary grammatical and commonly used meaning.

San Jacinto River Authority v. Eric Yollick, Individually and as Publisher of the Golden Hammer Newspaper · filed 2021-03-18(a)

Terms not specifically defined are considered to have the meaning assigned to them by the rules of grammar and the meaning a word has as commonly used.

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

in the Matter of C.C.C., a Juvenile · filed 2022-03-10(a)

“Due diligence” is not defined by statute but commonly means “[t]he diligence reasonably expected from, and ordinarily exercised by, a person who seeks to satisfy a legal requirement or to discharge an obligation.” Collins, 516 S.W.3d at 520 (citing BLACK’S LAW DICTIONARY 523 (9th ed. 2009)); see 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 give undefined terms their common, ordinary meaning unless the statute indicates otherwise or that meaning produces absurd results.

Fluor Corporation, Fluor Enterprises, Inc., and Fluor Daniel Mexico, S.A. v. E.D.G.M. · filed 2022-04-26(a)

Therefore, 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. Harris Cty. Appraisal Dist., 519 S.W.3d at 121–22 (citing 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 undefined statutory terms in context and give them their plain and ordinary meaning under the rules of grammar and common usage.

Mason v. the State of Texas · filed 2022-05-11(a)

Undefined terms in a statute are to be given their plain and ordinary meaning, and we refer to the rules of grammar and common usage to construe the terms. Watson v. State, 369 S.W.3d 865, 870 (Tex. Crim. App. 2012); see also Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 1.05(b); Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a), (b).

Section 311.011(a) calls for undefined statutory terms to receive their plain and common meaning in the context of the statute.

Sidetracked Bar, LLC v. Glen Hegar, Comptroller of Public Accounts of the State of Texas; and Ken Paxton, Attorney General of the State of Texas · filed 2022-12-29(a)

The Tax Code does not define the term “admission fee,” and we therefore give the term its plain and common meaning, as is appropriate within the context of the statute and consistent with the statute’s other provisions.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory terms their ordinary meaning unless the statutory context calls for a different meaning.

Penta v. Easy Street Capital, LLC · filed 2023-10-31(a)

Undefined terms are therefore afforded their ordinary meaning unless a different or more precise definition is apparent from the context of the statute, see Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a); TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Co. v. Combs, 340 S.W.3d 432, 439 (Tex. 2011), because we cannot give an undefined term a meaning that is disharmonious or inconsistent with other provisions in the statute, see Texas Dep’t of Transp. v. Needham, 82 S.W.3d 314, 318 (Tex. 2002).

Section 311.011 calls for courts to use the ordinary meaning of statutory terms unless the Legislature has defined them.

In re East Texas Medical Center Athens · filed 2023-11-21

When construing a statute, courts use the ordinary meaning of terms unless the Legislature provided a definition.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory terms their ordinary meaning.

City of Dallas v. Katrina Ahrens; S.A. and M.A., Children · filed 2024-04-11(a)

Where statutory terms are not defined, they are to be given their ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory terms their meaning under grammar and common usage.

Jones v. the State of Texas · filed 2024-07-11(a)

The Texas Government Code provides that undefined terms shall be “construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” T EX. GOV’T CODE § 311.011. ... Here, the jury could use its own common sense and usage in determining that Jones’s text message—declaring Calanni’s alleged sexual relationship and that it would be shared with the media unless Calanni resigned—was a “threat” as that word is commonly understood and defined by standard dictionaries.

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

Benjamin J. Corbin and Cindy Nicole Kroth v. the Commons of Lake Houston Property Owners Association, Inc. · filed 2024-07-23

The statute does not contain a definition for the term “perimeter fence” or “perimeter.” Therefore, we look to the ordinary or common meaning. See Code Construction Act, Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (words and phrases construed according to common usage).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and use their ordinary meaning when the statute does not define them.

Bermudez v. the State of Texas · filed 2025-01-27(a)

The term “computer impulse” is not defined by the statute. We therefore consider the plain and ordinary meaning of the term. See 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 usage.”).

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

In the Interest of C.L.M., a Child v. the State of Texas · filed 2025-07-31(a)

The term “physical abuse” is not defined. We thus construe it according to its common usage. See TEX. GOV’T CODE § 311.011(a).

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

Haley v. the State of Texas · filed 2025-10-09(a)

Here, the Texas Penal Code does not define the term “motor-propelled vehicle.” See id. § 1.07. We thus apply the term’s plain meaning.

When applying a statute, a court should give its words their usual and ordinary meaning.

Balios v. Texas Department of Public Safety · filed 1987-05-26(a)

When a court applies a statute, it should give the words of the statute their usual and ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) requires a clear and unambiguous statute to be given its common, everyday meaning.

El Paso Independent School District v. John Sharp, Comptroller of Public Accounts, State of Texas · filed 1996-06-05(a)

Under the plain meaning rule, if a statute is clear and unambiguous it should be given its common everyday meaning.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to give undefined statutory terms their ordinary, commonly understood meaning.

Long v. James v. Long · filed 1997-11-20§ 311.011(a)

We therefore give the terms their ordinary meaning. See Code Construction Act, Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (West 1988).

Under subsection (a), an undefined statutory term is construed according to its ordinary or common meaning.

Opinion No. · filed 2000-03-09(a)

When, as in this case, a term is undefined by the statute, we are charged to give it its ordinary or common meaning. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to determine the meaning of statutory words by their plain and common meaning when ascertaining legislative intent.

COM'N v. Continental Cas. · filed 2002-08-08Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

In order to ascertain legislative intent, we first look to the plain and common meaning of the words used by the legislature.

An undefined statutory term is first interpreted according to its commonly used meaning.

in the Matter of J.B.J., a Juvenile · filed 2002-09-26(a)

We look first to the meaning of "promptly" as the word is commonly used. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1998).

When a statute does not define a word, the word is given its common or ordinary meaning.

Opinion No. · filed 2003-03-13§ 311.011(a)

Chapter 571 of the Government Code does not define the word "disclose." Therefore it is to be given its common or ordinary meaning. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998).

Section 311.011(a) directs the construer to use the common meaning of a statutory term.

Opinion No. · filed 2003-10-28(a)

Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998) (directing a construer to define a statute's terms using the common definition).

Section 311.011(a) requires undefined statutory words to be construed according to their ordinary, common-use meaning.

Opinion No. · filed 2003-11-12§ 311.011(a)

Read in the light of the rule of statutory interpretation requiring that undefined terms be given their ordinary meaning, see Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998), section 22.004(b) makes unavoidable the discrepancy that concerns you.

A word or phrase that the Legislature has specifically defined must be construed according to that statutory definition.

Opinion No. · filed 2004-10-13(b)

Statutorily-defined words and phrases must be construed according to their statutory definition.

When a statute defines a term, courts must construe that term according to the statute’s definition.

Welch v. McLean · filed 2005-06-02(b)

We first look to the statute’s plain and common meaning and presume that the legislature intended the plain meaning of its words.

Section 311.011(a) requires statutes to be construed according to the plain and common meaning of their words.

William McMillin and Mary Furse//Cross-Appellant, State Farm Lloyds v. State Farm Lloyds//Cross-Appellees, William McMil · filed 2005-08-26§ 311.011(a)

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) requires courts to apply a statute's plain meaning unless that meaning is ambiguous or produces an absurd result the Legislature could not have intended.

Patterson v. State · filed 2006-10-26Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

We interpret a statute in accordance with the plain meaning of its language unless that language is ambiguous or the plain meaning leads to absurd results that the Legislature could not possibly have intended.

Undefined statutory terms are given their common meaning.

Opinion No. · filed 2006-12-04(a)

For undefined statutory terms, we look to their common meaning. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 2005).

Words in a statute that are not defined are ordinarily construed according to their plain meaning unless the statute clearly indicates they were used in another sense.

Ex Parte Morales · filed 2007-02-07(a)

When words are not defined in a statute, they are ordinarily given their plain meaning unless the statute clearly shows that they were used in some other sense.

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words to be construed according to their plain and common meaning when determining legislative intent.

Enviropower, L.L.C. v. Bear, Stearns & Co., Inc. · filed 2008-02-21§ 311.011(a)

In order to ascertain legislative intent, we must first look to the plain and common meaning of the words used by the Legislature. Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998 & Supp. 2007); St. Luke's Episcopal Hosp. v. Agbor , 952 S.W.2d 503, 505 (Tex. 1997).

Section 311.011(a) means that courts should interpret statutory words according to their plain and common meaning.

Choy v. Graziano Roofing of Texas, Inc. · filed 2009-10-01§ 311.011(a)

It is cardinal law in Texas that a court construes a statute, "first, by looking to the plain and common meaning of the statute's words"

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

Commission on State Emergency Communications v. TracFone Wireless, Inc. and Virgin Mobile USA, LP. · filed 2011-05-05(a)

The plain meaning of the text is the best expression of legislative intent unless a different meaning is supplied by legislative definition or is apparent from the context, or unless the plain meaning leads to absurd or nonsensical results. ... see Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (West 2005) ("Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.").

Section 311.011 requires courts to read statutory words in context and follow legislative definitions when construing a statute.

Christus Health Gulf Coast (As an Entity, D/B/A Christus St. Catherine Hospital, and Formerly D/B/A Christus St. Joseph Hospital) v. Carswell · filed 2013-08-29(a), (b)

The Dissenting Opinion advances a construction of section 74.001(a)(13) that supports Christus’s contentions but that both contradicts the plain language of the applicable definitional subsections of the MLI-IA cited above and fails to give meaning to the critical limiting language in the statute, as required by the rules of statutory construction. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2013) (“Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage”); ... see also Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(b) (words and phrases that have acquired particular meaning through legislative definition “shall be construed accordingly”).

Section 311.011(a) calls for statutory language without a particular or technical meaning to be construed according to common usage.

Seaton v. State · filed 2012-08-15(a)

Therefore, we will construe the language according to its common usage unless it leads to an absurd result. See TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a); Ramos v. State, 303 S.W.3d 302, 307 (Tex. Crim. App. 2009).

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

Mayonada-Hurtado v. State · filed 2013-08-08(a)

We focus on the literal text of the statutory language, reading it in context and construing it according to grammar rules and common usage. Id. (citing TEX. GOV’T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a)).

Section 311.011 directs courts to read statutory words in context according to grammar and common usage unless the statute defines them.

In Re Keller · filed 2010-11-08(a), (b)

When interpreting a statute, we read words and phrases in context and construe them according to the rules of grammar and common usage, unless statutorily defined. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a), (b).

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

LTTS CHARTER SCHOOL, INC. v. Palasota · filed 2009-09-01(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.

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

Little v. State · filed 2008-02-14(a)

Thus, we must construe the language in context according to the rules of grammar and usage; Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005); Dowthitt v. State, 931 S.W.2d 244, 258 (Tex.Crim.App. 1996), while keeping in mind that words undefined by statute that have not acquired a technical meaning should be given their ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to construe statutory language in context according to the rules of grammar and usage.

Cruz v. State · filed 2004-12-16(a)

Thus, we must construe the language in context according to the rules of grammar and usage; Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005); Dowthitt v. State, 931 S.W.2d 244, 258 (Tex.Crim.App. 1996), while keeping in mind that words undefined by statute that have not acquired a technical meaning should be given their ordinary meaning.

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words and phrases to be construed consistently with their common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2000-02-24(a)

"Continuous" employment denotes employment "[u]ninterrupted in time . . .; connected; unbroken. III Oxford English Dictionary 830 (2d ed. 1989); see Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998) (requiring that statutory words and phrases be construed consistently with common usage).

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

Williams v. U.S. Natural Resources, Inc. D/B/A Friedrich Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Company · filed 1993-09-15(a)

The Code Construction Act directs that words and phrases be read "in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage." Tex. Govt. Code Ann. § 311.011(a).

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

State v. One 1938 Chevrolet · filed 1992-06-02(a)

Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. ... Reading chapter 59 and applying the word “use” in accordance with grammar, common usage, and common sense to these facts, we find that Bradley used the 1938 Chevrolet in the commission of the felony theft.

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words to be read in context and according to grammar and common usage; “only” has an exclusionary meaning.

H & C Communications, Inc. v. Reed's Food International, Inc. · filed 1994-10-05(a)

(1) 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) (Vernon 1988). ... The word “only” is a word of exclusion.

Section 311.011 instructs courts to read statutory words and phrases in context.

Port of Houston Authority v. West · filed 1989-12-21

The Code Construction Act instructs Texas courts to read statutory words and phrases in context. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1988). Following the rationale of the Fort Worth Court of Appeals in its City of Bedford decision, we hold that section 101.104 must be read as a whole, and that the prohibition against disclosure of governmental insurance coverage applies only in Tort Claims Act litigation.

Section 311.011(a) calls for statutory words to be given their common meaning, rejecting definitions that are too broad or too technical.

Morris v. State · filed 1996-08-01(a)

The State’s broad definition of “machine” would mean that a person breaking into the “Poor Box” of a church could be convicted of breaking into a coin-operated machine. We find such a hypothetical to exist outside the realm of common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1988). We find that the appellant’s definition is too technical and the State’s is too simplistic.

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

Cedillo v. Gaitan · filed 1998-09-23(a)

Under the Code Construction Act, “[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage,” bearing in mind “the old law, the evil, and the remedy.”

Section 311.011 directs courts to read words in context according to grammar and common usage.

Whiteco Metrocom, Inc. v. Texas Utilities Electric Co. · filed 2000-03-15

The Code Construction Act provides that words are to be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. ... The terms “on account of’ and “for” both mean “because of.” ... Consequently, we conclude the change to the immunity statute was not substantive.

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

Flores v. State · filed 2000-12-14(a)

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

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

Travis County Attorney v. J.S.H. · filed 2001-01-11

The Code Construction Act requires that words and phrases be read in context and construed according to rules of grammar and common usage.

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

In the Interest of D.P., a Child · filed 2001-11-28(a)

Although the term “knowingly” is defined in section 6.03(b) of the Texas Penal Code, it is not defined in chapter 161 of the Family Code. Because the parties have not presented any definition, statutory or otherwise, of the term for purposes of termination proceedings, the Code Construction Act directs that we read the term in context and construe it with the rules of grammar and common usage.

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

Town of Flower Mound v. Teague · filed 2003-06-26(a)

Words and phrases 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).

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

In Re AV · 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. ... We must read words and phrases in context and *360 construe them "according to the rules of grammar and common usage."

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

in Re Barry R. Miller · filed 2004-04-08

Under the Code Construction Act, "[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage." Id. ... But those words can be given their common meaning without creating an inconsistency between the types of discovery authorized by subsection (s) and subsection (u).

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

Reed v. State · filed 2007-02-13(a)

Further, in addition to construing words and phrases of a statute according to the rules of grammar and common usage, reviewing courts must read the statute in context. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005).

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

Haynes v. State · filed 2007-02-20(a)

The Code Construction Act also instructs that words and phrases should be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read words in context according to grammar and common usage; dictionaries can identify a word’s common use.

Mauro v. State · filed 2007-04-18(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’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005). ... Dictionaries determine a word’s common use.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words and phrases in context and according to the rules of grammar and usage.

State v. Watts · filed 2007-08-15(a)

In determining the plain meaning of the text, we read words and phrases in context and construe them in accordance with "the rules of grammar and usage." Sanchez v. State, 995 S.W.2d 677, 683 (Tex. Crim. App. 1999)(quoting Tex. Gov't Code Ann.§ 311.011(a) (Vernon 2005)).

Words and phrases in administrative rules with the force of statutes are read in context according to grammar and common usage.

Canyon Regional Water Authority v. Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority · filed 2008-10-30

Accordingly, words and phrases will be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Section 311.011 requires words and phrases to be read in context and according to grammar and common usage; an adjective before a series of nouns can modify each noun.

Consolidated Reinforcement, L.P. and Consolidated Reinforcement, Inc. v. Carothers Executive Homes, Ltd., and Carothers Homes, Inc. · filed 2008-12-05(a)

We, however, are to read “words and phrases” in context and construe them “according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (West 2005). A straightforward reading leads to the conclusion that the adjective “negligent” modifies the three nouns “act,” “error,” and “omission” that are connected by the conjunction “or.”

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to read statutory language in context and in light of its common meaning when determining legislative intent.

ICAN Enterprise, Inc. v. Williamson County Appraisal District · filed 2009-04-17(a)

In determining legislative intent, we must read the language contained in the statute in context and in light of its common meaning. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 2005).

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

Marks v. St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital · filed 2009-08-28(a)

When interpreting a statute, we read words and phrases in context and construe them according to the rules of grammar and common usage. 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.

Tapps v. State · filed 2009-09-30(a)

To do so, we focus 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.”

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

Greg Abbott, Attorney General of Texas v. Texas Board of Nursing · filed 2010-02-03(a)

The Code Construction Act requires us to construe words and phrases "according to the rules of grammar and common usage," id. § 311.011(a) (West 2005), and one general rule of grammar is that modifying words or phrases are presumed to apply to the words or phrases that immediately precede them and not those more remote. ... However, this rule "'is neither controlling nor inflexible,'" Jim Walter Homes, Inc., 34 S.W.3d at 580 (quoting City of Corsicana v. Willmann, 216 S.W.2d 175, 176 (Tex. 1949)), and it remains that we must also construe the words in context, and this may reveal contrary legislative intent. ... 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.") (emphasis added).

Section 311.011 requires words and phrases to be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

In Re SSA · filed 2010-03-02

We rely on the plain meaning of the text, unless a different meaning is supplied by legislative definition or is apparent from context, or unless such a construction leads to absurd results. ... TEX.GOV'T CODE ANN. § 311.011 (Vernon 2005)("[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage").

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

Andrew Fares Kfouri v. State · filed 2010-03-09(a)

“Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and usage.”

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

Hernandez v. State · filed 2010-03-16(a)

In determining the plain meaning of the language of a statute, “[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 2005).

Section 311.011(a) requires statutes to be interpreted by reading words and phrases in context and according to grammar and common usage.

Basith Ghazali, M.D. v. Brown · filed 2010-02-25(a)

We then interpret a statute by reading the words and phrases in context and construing them according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 2009).

Section 311.011 requires statutory words and phrases to be read in context.

Greg Abbott, Attorney General of Texas v. Texas Board of Nursing · filed 2010-02-03

In construing an undefined statutory term, courts should not give the term "a meaning out of harmony or inconsistent with other provisions, although it might be susceptible of such a construction if standing alone." Id.; see also Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (West 2005) ("Words and phrases shall be read in context. . . .").

Section 311.011 requires words and phrases to be read in context and given their ordinary grammatical and common meanings.

Cities of Corpus Christi and Office of Public Utility Counsel v. Public Utility Commission of Texas and AEP Texas Central Company · filed 2010-06-11

Undercutting OPC’s position is the legislature’s use of “changed rate” to describe the rate being implemented under bond. In other words, according to the plain language of the statute, a “bonded rate” is a “changed rate.” See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (“[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage”); City of Rockwall, 246 S.W.3d at 625-26.

Section 311.011 requires statutory words to be construed according to their plain and common meaning unless they have an established technical or particular meaning.

M.T.D. Environmental, L.L.P. v. City of Midland · filed 2010-06-24

We first look to the plain and common meaning of the words used by the legislature. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 2005); Kroger Co. v. Keng, 23 S.W.3d 347, 349 (Tex.2000).

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

State v. KEW · filed 2010-07-02(a)

Accordingly, we read it in context and construe the term according to common usage. See TEX. GOV'T CODE § 311.011(a).

Section 311.011 directs courts to read statutory words in context and apply the rules of grammar and common usage.

Clint Tuma and Amy Tuma v. Kerr County, Texas, a Political Subdivision of the State of Texas and Janie Whitt · filed 2010-11-29

And, 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 (West 2005). ... And, according to the rules of grammar and common usage, “directly” modifies both “is . . . harmed” and “is . . . threatened with harm.”

Section 311.011(a)’s rule of common grammar permits a different reading when statutory context and legislative intent require it.

S & P Consulting Engineers, PLLC v. Baker · filed 2011-02-18(a)

We are mindful that words and phrases must be “construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage,” and acknowledge authority preferring that a single adjective preceding a list of nouns modifies each of the nouns. See Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a); Consolidated Reinforcement, 271 S.W.3d at 893. ... The plain language of the statute permits this reading, and the revised context created by the amendment as well as the express intent of the legislature require this departure from the general rule of construction regarding a single adjective preceding a series of nouns.

Section 311.011(a) requires words and phrases to be read in context and according to grammar and common usage; a reading that disregards a definition’s grammatical structure cannot omit its substantive requirements.

John H. Carney & Associates v. Texas Property & Casualty Insurance Guaranty Ass'n · filed 2011-11-21(a)

To the extent Carney argues that the emphasized text is a stand-alone definition of “covered claim,” we reject that contention because Carney’s proposed construction ignores the grammatical structure of the definition of “covered claim” in a way that would write out substantive requirements of the term, including that the claim be unpaid, within policy limits, and within policy coverage.

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

Ex Parte Christopher Ruben Zavala · filed 2013-12-11(a)

In determining a statute’s plain meaning, we read the 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) (West 2013).

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

Adkisson v. Abbott · filed 2014-06-13(a)

We consider the entire act when determining the Legislature’s intent with respect to specific statutory provisions, see Railroad Comm’n v. Texas Citizens for a Safe Future & Clean Water, 336 S.W.3d 619, 628 (Tex. 2011), and we read words and phrases in context and construe them according to the rules of grammar and common usage, Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011.

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in the context of surrounding provisions.

in Re the Office of the Attorney General of Texas · filed 2015-01-30(a)

We construe the words of a statute according to their plain meaning, Tex. Dep’t of Transp. v. City of Sunset Valley, 146 S.W.3d 637, 642 (Tex. 2004), and in the context of the statute’s surrounding provisions, see TEX. GOV’T CODE § 311.011(a).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read statutory words in context and according to common usage; a phrase can be clear when read alongside the surrounding terms.

Carter, Ex Parte Justin River · filed 2015-11-03(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). ... Here, the term “other public services” in subsection (a)(4) is a phrase easily understood by persons of common intelligence, particularly when taken in context with the specific types of public services listed in the subsection.

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

Ex Parte Marcos M. Flores · filed 2015-11-10

Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (West 2013); Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 1.05(b) (West 2011) (making section 311.011 applicable to the Texas Penal Code). ... But our interpretation does not add language; it gives the statute its proper grammatical interpretation.

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

Ex parte Flores · filed 2015-11-10

Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and usage. Tex. Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011 (West 2013); Tex. Penal Coije Ann. § 1.05(b) (West 2011) (making section 311.011 applicable to the Texas Penal Code). ... Grammatically, the group of words “having a common identifying sign or symbol or an identifiable leadership” is a participial phrase acting as an adjective that modifies the noun “persons.”

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words to be read in context when choosing between possible meanings.

Leming v. State · filed 2016-04-13(a)

Again, we do not believe the Legislature intended that an operator should be required to maintain a single marked lane of traffic so long as it is practical — as opposed to theoretical — to do so. "Words ... shall be read in context[,]” Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a), and here, the context counsels against such a construction.

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

Ken Paxton, Attorney General of the State of Texas v. Texas Department of State Health Services · filed 2016-08-31(a)

We must read words and phrases “in context” and construe them “according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” ... But such an interpretation fails when the provision is considered, as it must be, in the context of the OIG’s enabling provisions.

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

D.A. v. Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital of Denton · filed 2017-02-16(a)

When examining statutory text, the Code Construction Act mandates that we read words and phrases in context and construe them according to the rules of grammar and usage.

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

State v. Donaldson · filed 2017-04-20(a)

To do so, we first look to the literal text of the statute, reading words and phrases in context and construing them according to the normal rules of grammar and common usage.

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

Wagner v. State · filed 2018-02-14(a)

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 read statutory words and phrases in context and construe them according to grammar and usage.

Glenn v. Leal · filed 2018-03-01(a)

We read words and phrases in context and construe them according to the rules of grammar and usage. See TEX. GOV'T CODE ANN. § 311.011(a) (West 2013).

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to interpret statutory language according to grammar and common usage, including the nearest antecedent rule when its application is reasonable.

Transformative Learning System D/B/A Transformative Charter Academy v. Texas Education Agency and Michael Williams in Hi · filed 2018-12-28(a)

The Legislature requires courts to interpret its statutory language “according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a). A subsequent prepositional phrase is generally assumed to modify the nearest antecedent unless such a construction is unreasonable.

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

Fort Bend County v. Norsworthy · filed 2019-03-21(a)

We must read the phrase “claimant in a third-party action” in context and construe it according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

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

Garcia v. Jesse Robert Perez and South Texas Emergency Care Foundation, Inc. · filed 2019-05-23(a)

When construing a statute, words and phrases are read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. ... If the word “volunteer” was intended to modify “rescue squads” and “emergency medical services providers” in addition to “fire departments,” the indefinite article “an” would not appear before “emergency medical services provider” in the statute.

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

Williams v. State · filed 2019-07-09(a)

We read the text of the statute in context, construing it “according to the rules of grammar and common usage.” TEX. GOV’T CODE § 311.011(a); Tapps, 294 S.W.3d at 177.

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

Ex Parte: Marinda Palacios · filed 2019-07-24(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).

Section 311.011(a) requires courts to construe statutory words and phrases according to grammar and common usage; under that rule, “made of” and “made from” have different meanings.

RJR Vapor Co., LLC v. Glenn Hegar, Comptroller of Public Accounts of the State of Texas; the Office of the Comptroller of Public Accounts of the State of Texas; and Ken Paxton, Attorney General of the State of Texas · filed 2023-12-14(a)

Courts must construe statutes according to the rules of grammar and common usage. See Tex. Gov’t Code § 311.011(a). According to these rules, the phrases “made of” and “made from” convey different meanings.

Section 311.011 requires words to be read in statutory context, which can limit their ordinary meaning.

Alamo Heights Independent School District, Ryan Anderson, David Hornberger, Brian Hamilton, Bonnie Gidden, Lisa Krenger, Perry Shankle, Stacy Sharp, and Dana Bashara v. Selina Jones, Roy Hummel, and Leslie Michelle Pruitt · filed 2024-08-28

We agree that here, context controls and that the word “acquiring” in § 21.046 cannot be read in isolation of the 43 other provisions that surround it.

Section 311.011(a) requires words to be read in statutory context, which can narrow a word’s ordinary dictionary meaning.

Sunstate Equipment Co., LLC v. Glenn Hegar, Comptroller of Public Accounts of the State of Texas; and Ken Paxton, Attorney General of the State of Texas · filed 2020-04-03(a)

While this definition, by itself, could be understood broadly to mean that one could acquire the same thing over and over, we must read the term in its statutory context. TEX. GOV’T CODE § 311.011(a) (“Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.”); see TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Co. v. Combs, 340 S.W.3d 432, 441 (Tex. 2011) (looking to the “statute in its entirety” to interpret a term with various meanings). Here, we must consider the meaning of “acquire” in the context of section 171.1012, including subsection 171.1012(e)’s exclusions.

Section 311.011(a) calls for statutory language to be read in context rather than in isolation.

Texas Logos, L.P. v. Brinkmeyer · filed 2008-05-07(a)

To that end, we consider statutory language in context, not in isolation.

Section 311.011(a) calls for reading statutory words in context; pairing “harassing” with “threatening” indicates a higher emotional intensity.

Garcia v. State · filed 2006-12-29(a)

Whatever "harassing" means, by connecting it to the word "threatening," we believe the legislature intended it to be of higher emotional intensity than it was in the former stalking statute.

Section 311.011 directs courts to read statutory words and phrases in context and examine the act as a whole.

Segal v. Emmes Capital, L.L.C. · filed 2004-03-11

In ascertaining legislative intent, we do not confíne our review to isolated statutory words, phrases, or clauses, but we instead examine the entire act.

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

Bryson v. State · filed 1991-04-24(a)

In interpreting the statute it is necessary that “another” be “read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and usage.” Tex. Gov’tCode § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1985).

Section 311.011(a) directs courts to read words in context when construing the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure.

Simulis, L.L.C. v. G.E. Capital Corp. · filed 2008-11-26(a)

Given the plain meaning of rule 658, rules 663a and 664a cannot mean what Simulis argues. See Tex Gov’t Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (providing that words and phrases be read in context).

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory phrases to be construed according to grammar and common usage, including the effect of punctuation and neighboring language.

Senn v. State · filed 2017-01-12(a)

"according to the rules of grammar and common usage"

Words and phrases are read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

in Re Texas Mutual Insurance Company and Natalie L. Garcia · filed 2011-08-03(a)

"Words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage."

An undefined statutory term must be construed according to its common usage.

Chargois v. State · filed 1992-01-08§ 311.011(a)

Because "firearm" is not defined elsewhere, it is given its common meaning in accordance with common usage. Campbell , 716 S.W.2d at 526; Garcia , 791 S.W.2d at 283; Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (1988); Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 1.05(b)

An undefined statutory term is construed in context and according to its common usage.

Roddy v. State · filed 1994-06-22(a)

Thus, we must construe the term in context and according to common usage. Tex. Penal Code Ann. § 1.05 (West 1974 & Supp. 1994); Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (West 1988).

When a statute does not define a term, the term must be interpreted according to its common, ordinary meaning.

Syntax, Inc. v. Hall · filed 1995-06-08Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

The statute in question does not define what "pursuant to foreclosure of a tax lien" means, so we are bound to interpret the words according to their common usage. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. §§ 311.011 & 312.002 (Vernon 1988).

Statutory phrases must be read in context and construed according to their common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 1999-07-06§ 311.011(a)

See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998) (directing that statutory phrases be read in context and construed according to common usage).

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

Opinion No. · filed 1999-09-01§ 311.011(a)

(words to be read in context and construed according to grammar and common usage)

Undefined statutory terms are construed according to their ordinary meaning, while the statutory context also informs their construction.

Opinion No. · filed 1999-09-01§ 311.011(a)

Chapter 312 does not define "improvement" or "repair." Thus, we begin by looking at the ordinary definitions of the terms. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

Undefined statutory words and phrases must be interpreted in context according to ordinary rules of grammar and common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 1999-12-16§ 311.011(a)

Undefined words and phrases in a statute must be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998).

Undefined statutory words and phrases must be interpreted in context and according to ordinary grammar and common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 1999-12-29§ 311.011(a)

Undefined words and phrases in a statute must be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

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

Opinion No. · filed 2000-02-08§ 311.011(a)

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.")

Statutory words and phrases generally are construed according to their common usage or accepted meaning.

Opinion No. · filed 2000-05-22§ 311.011(a)

As commonly defined, see Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998) (directing that statutory words and phrases generally should be construed consistently with common usage or accepted meaning), the phrase "newspaper of general circulation" describes a newspaper that has more than a de minimis number of subscribers, has a diverse audience, and contains some news of general interest to the community.

When construing a statute, its words must be read in context according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2000-07-07§ 311.011(a)

It is well established that the words of a statute are to be read in context according to the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

Subsection (a) requires statutory words and phrases to be read in context and according to their common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2000-07-26§ 311.011(a)

The Code Construction Act instructs us to read words and phrases in context and according to common usage. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

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

Opinion No. · filed 2000-10-27(a)

Statutory words and phrases must be "read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage." Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998).

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

State v. Wofford · filed 2000-11-30(a)

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

An undefined statutory word must be construed consistently with its common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2001-02-20§ 311.011(a)

But a word that the legislature has not defined by statute must be defined consistently with common usage. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

Statutory words and phrases must be read in context and given their ordinary grammatical meaning.

Opinion No. · filed 2001-04-27(a)

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

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

Opinion No. · filed 2001-05-01Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

The phrase "fully taxable by the district" in Government Code section 403.302 (d)(8) must be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

Statutory words and phrases must be interpreted in context and according to ordinary grammar and common usage.

Martin v. Harris County Appraisal District · filed 2001-05-03Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

When interpreting a statute, words and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Statutory words and phrases must be interpreted in their context.

Opinion No. · filed 2001-05-11Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

Words and phrases in statutes are to be read in context. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

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

Robinson v. Budget Rent-A-Car Systems, Inc. · filed 2001-06-14(a)

In determining plain meaning, "[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).

Section 311.011(a) requires undefined statutory words to be interpreted in context and according to ordinary grammar and common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2001-07-10Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

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

Words and phrases must be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2001-09-26(a)

Statutory words and phrases are to be "read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage." See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

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

Opinion No. · filed 2001-10-03Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

The term is not defined by the statute, and accordingly the Code Construction Act requires us to construe it "according to the rules of grammar and common usage."

Section 311.011(a) requires an undefined statutory term to be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

In Re DP · filed 2001-11-28(a)

Because the parties have not presented any definition, statutory or otherwise, of the term for purposes of termination proceedings, the Code Construction Act directs that we read the term in context and construe it with the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1998).

When a statutory term is undefined, the term must be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

in the Interest of Dekota Podzemny, a Child · filed 2001-11-28(a)

the Code Construction Act directs that we read the term in context and construe it with the rules of grammar and common usage. Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1998).

Statutory words and phrases must be construed consistently with their common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2001-12-17(a)

see Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998) (requiring that statutory words and phrases be construed consistently with common usage).

When a statute does not define a word, the word must be read in context and construed according to ordinary grammar and common usage.

Cuellar v. State · filed 2002-02-13§ 311.011(a)

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

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words and phrases to be interpreted using ordinary grammar and common usage while also reading them in their surrounding context.

Opinion No. · filed 2002-06-11§ 311.011(a)

But the Code Construction Act requires not only that words and phrases be "construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage," it also directs that "[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context." Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

Under subsection 311.011(a), statutory words are read in context and construed according to common usage when undefined terms require interpretation.

Opinion No. · filed 2002-06-24(a)

We accordingly apply the terms' "common usage." See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998) ("Words . . . shall be read in context and construed according to . . . common usage.").

When construing statutory words and phrases, read them in context and according to ordinary grammar and common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2002-06-28§ 311.011(a)

The Code Construction Act requires us to construe the "words and phrases" of article 2.12 "in context and . . . according to the rules of grammar and common usage." Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998).

When a statute does not define a word or phrase, section 311.011(a) requires reading it in context and construing it according to common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2002-07-09Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a)

see Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998) (providing that words and phrases used in statute but not defined by it "shall be read in context and construed according to . . . common usage.").

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

Opinion No. · filed 2002-08-14(a), (b)

Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998) (requiring statutory interpreter to read words "in context" and consistently with "rules of grammar and common usage")

Words in a statute should be construed according to their ordinary, commonly used meaning when the statute does not define them.

In Re JBJ · filed 2002-09-26(a)

The Family Code does not provide us with a definition of "promptly" in this context. We look first to the meaning of "promptly" as the word is commonly used. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011(a) (Vernon 1998).

Words and phrases must be interpreted in context rather than in isolation.

Segal, Richard and Judith Joe Fogarty and Nancy Fogarty v. Emmes Capital, LLC · filed 2002-10-10§ 311.011(a)

see Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (Vernon 1998) (instructing to construe words and phrases in context ).

Statutory words and phrases must be read in context and construed according to grammar and common usage.

Opinion No. · filed 2002-10-29(a)

"Under the Code Construction Act, statutory "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) (Vernon 1998).

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words to be read in context and given their ordinary, commonly understood meaning.

Opinion No. · filed 2002-11-19(a)

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 common usage).

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

Opinion No. · filed 2003-01-06(a)

We read words and phrases in context and construe them according to rules of grammar and common usage. See Tex. Gov't Code Ann. § 311.011 (a) (Vernon 1998) (Code Construction Act).

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

Opinion No. · filed 2003-03-13§ 311.011(a)

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.").

Statutory words must be read in context and interpreted according to grammar and common usage.

Hooper v. State · filed 2003-04-24(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) (West 1988).

Subsection (a) requires statutory words and phrases to be read in context and given their ordinary meaning under the rules of grammar and common usage.

in the Interest of Silas J. Hurd & Monique C. Hurd, Minor Children · filed 2003-04-28(a)

Tex. Gov't Code Ann. §311.011(a) (Vernon 1998) (stating that words and phrases contained in a statute shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage)

Section 311.011(a) requires statutory words and phrases to be interpreted in context and according to the rules of grammar and common usage.

Webb v. State · filed 2003-05-29(a)

"[w]ords and phrases shall be read in context and construed according to the rules of grammar and common usage."