Property Law

Tenant is a person who occupies land or property rented from a landlord. It can also refer to someone who uses a particular space or thing under a lease or agreement. The term emphasizes occupancy rather than ownership, and it appears in legal, housing, and daily conversation contexts.

Title is a noun meaning a name or heading that identifies a work or person, or a rank or position. It can also denote ownership or status in certain contexts. The word often appears in contexts like books, films, and formal addresses, and its stress pattern and vowel quality can influence meaning and emphasis in sentences.

Assessment refers to the process of evaluating someone or something to determine value, quality, or level of performance. It involves collecting information, analyzing it against criteria, and drawing conclusions or making judgments. In practice, assessments guide decision-making in education, psychology, and organizational contexts, shaping feedback, opportunities, and next steps.

An assignment is a task or piece of work designated to someone as part of a course, job, or project. It typically has a defined scope, deadline, and criteria for completion, and may be graded or reviewed. The term encompasses tasks ranging from essays and projects to choreographed duties in professional settings. The word also implies an official or assigned role or position in some contexts.

Commission is a noun or verb meaning a group given authorization to perform a duty or task, or the act of granting such authorization, or a fee paid for services. It denotes formal authorization, a mission or assignment, and in sales, a percentage-based fee. It carries connotations of official capacity, delegation, and performance-based compensation.

Deed refers to a voluntary action, typically one that is illegal or formal in legal contexts, or simply a past action described as a ‘ deed.’ In everyday use, it means something done or performed, often highlighting intent or consequence. The term emphasizes the action itself rather than the actor, and it frequently appears in legal, ethical, or historical discussions, as in ‘a binding deed’ or ‘good deeds.’

Easement is a legally granted right to cross or otherwise use someone else’s land for a specific purpose, such as access or utilities. It does not grant ownership, but it confers enduring permission that can affect land use. The term is common in real estate and property law contexts, and is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable.

Encroachment refers to the act of gradually intruding on someone else’s space, rights, or territory, often without permission. It implies crossing boundaries in a way that infringes or trespasses, typically causing concern or conflict. The term is commonly used in legal, urban planning, and social contexts to describe gradual or unauthorized intrusion.

Encumbrance is something that weighs you down or prevents free movement, often a physical burden or legal obstacle. It can also refer to a hindrance that complicates action or progress. The term carries a formal, technical register and is commonly used in legal, financial, or bureaucratic contexts.

Eviction is the legal process of removing a person or their belongings from property, typically for nonpayment of rent or violation of lease terms. It is a formal, judicial action that results in the loss of occupancy rights. The term emphasizes forceful or legal expulsion from a residence or premises.

Fixture is a noun or verb meaning something fixed in place or a person or thing that is expected to remain in a position or role. In buildings or events, a fixture is permanently installed; in sports or schedules, a fixture refers to a scheduled match or game. As a verb, to fixture means to fasten or set firmly in position. The term often carries a sense of permanence or reliability.

Foreclosure is the legal process by which a lender takes possession of a property due to the borrower’s default on mortgage payments, potentially ending the borrower’s rights to redeem the property. It typically follows failed repayment and notice, allowing sale of the asset to recover the loan. The term also signals a critical point in real estate finance and borrower risk assessment.

Freehold refers to a type of property ownership where the owner has full ownership of the land and buildings for an indefinite period, without the landlord or superior owner. It conveys both the property and the land, with no lease terms. In legal contexts, it denotes lasting, self-contained ownership, typically with broad rights of use and transfer.

Grantee refers to a person or entity that has been granted something, typically a right or property, by a grantor. The term is often used in legal or formal contexts to denote the recipient of a grant. It emphasizes the recipient’s entitlement and the legal transfer of rights, usually under specified terms and conditions.