# modus

/ˈmoʊdəs/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/modus
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a way of doing something, especially a specific method or style. In legal contexts, it often refers to a specific type of legal action or a formal way of doing business.

For teachers: a manner, way, or method of doing something. In a legal context, it refers to a specific form or type of legal proceeding or a formal mode of operation.

## Examples

- The lawyer explained the modus of the trial.
- The judge asked the defendant to clarify the modus of the transaction to determine if it was legal.
- The legal team argued that the modus of the contract was so clear that any ambiguity in the final clause should be disregarded in favor of the established intent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.