What legal principle means "covering things of the same type"?

The principle that refers to "covering things of the same type" is Ejusdem generis. This legal maxim is utilized in statutory interpretation, indicating that when a law lists specific items followed by more general terms, the general terms should be interpreted in light of the specific items listed before them. This means that the general terms will be confined to things of a similar nature or kind as those explicitly mentioned.

For example, if a statute refers to "cars, trucks, and other vehicles," the term "other vehicles" would typically be interpreted to mean vehicles similar to cars and trucks, such as vans or motorcycles, rather than something entirely different like boats or airplanes. This principle helps ensure that laws are understood in a way that reflects the intent of the lawmakers, focusing on the context and categories of items being addressed.

The other principles mentioned do not convey the same meaning. Expressio unius est exclusio alterius translates to "the expression of one thing is the exclusion of another," which indicates that if something is expressly mentioned, then other items not mentioned are excluded. Noscitur a sociis means "a thing is known by the company it keeps," indicating that the meaning of a word or phrase can be influenced by the context in which