jurisdiction
UK: ˌdʒʊərɪsˈdɪkʃən | US: ˌdʒʊrɪsˈdɪkʃən
n. the official power to make legal decisions and judgments
n. the territory or sphere of activity over which legal authority extends
The word "jurisdiction" originates from Latin jurisdictio, combining juris (genitive of jus, meaning "law") and dictio (from dicere, meaning "to speak"). It reflects the concept of "declaring or administering the law." Over time, it evolved to signify both the authority to interpret laws and the geographic or functional scope of that authority. The morphemes preserve their original Latin roots while adapting to modern legal terminology.
The court has jurisdiction over cases involving federal laws.
This matter falls outside our jurisdiction.
The police questioned whether they had jurisdiction to arrest the suspect.
The treaty expanded the country’s maritime jurisdiction.
Local governments often share jurisdiction with state agencies.