The term "vis major" refers to a legal concept used to describe an unforeseeable and uncontrollable event, such as a natural disaster, which could not be prevented or avoided. The word is spelled as /vɪs ˈmeɪdʒər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a long "a" sound in the second syllable. The stress is placed on the second syllable, which is pronounced as "may-jer". This term is used in legal documents and contracts to specify the circumstances under which parties may be excused from fulfilling their obligations.
"Vis major" is a Latin term that translates to "superior force" or "act of God" in English. It refers to an unforeseen and uncontrollable event or circumstance that causes immense damage or disruption, often beyond human control or prevention. More specifically, it is used in legal contexts to describe an extraordinary occurrence or a natural catastrophe that is sudden and unexpected, leading to unavoidable consequences.
Vis major encompasses a wide range of events such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other natural disasters. It can also include man-made incidents like terrorist attacks or wars. The key characteristic of a vis major event is that it is completely unavoidable and unforeseeable, thus exempting individuals or entities from liability or responsibility for any resulting damages or failure to fulfill obligations.
In legal contexts, the concept of vis major is particularly relevant in various contractual agreements, such as insurance, rental, employment, or supply contracts, where it serves as a means to absolve one party from fulfilling their obligations due to circumstances beyond their control. The inclusion of a "force majeure" clause in contracts explicitly recognizes the possibility of vis major events and establishes the conditions under which parties may be released from their contractual duties.
Overall, vis major refers to an extraordinary event or force that cannot be anticipated, controlled, or prevented, and often has significant consequences on individuals, organizations, or society as a whole.
The word vis major is derived from Latin. Vis means 'force' or 'strength,' and major means 'greater' or 'larger.' Therefore, vis major translates to greater force.