Legal Definitions - more or less

Definition: More or less means that a quantity can be larger or smaller than what is stated. This phrase is often used in deeds and contracts to show that the actual amount may differ from what is believed at the time of the agreement. It is a way to acknowledge the risk of a slight difference in quantity.

For example, a property deed may state that the property contains 120 acres, more or less. This means that the actual size of the property may be slightly different from 120 acres, but both parties accept this risk.

In a contract, the seller's wheat field may be expected to produce 50 bushels per acre, more or less. This means that the actual amount of wheat produced may be slightly more or less than 50 bushels per acre, but both parties accept this risk.

The use of more or less in these examples shows that both parties understand that the actual quantity may differ from what is stated, but they still agree to the terms of the agreement.