EXPRESSIO UNIUS EST EXCLUSIO ALTERIUS

 The maxim is a Latin word which  literally means “express mention of one thing implies the exclusion of another”.

    This is a maxim for ascertaining the intention of the legislature. Where the statutory language is plain and the meaning is clear, there is no scope. The method of construction according to this maxim must be carefully watched. the maxim is often a valuable servant but a dangerous master to follow in the construction of statute.The maxim must not be applied when its application leads to inconsistency or injustice.

            This is a rule which is used in the interpretation of statutes. The maxim indicates that items not in the list are assumed not to be covered by the statute. In other words, when something is mentioned expressly in a statute it leads to the presumption that the things not mentioned are excluded. 

For example, ‘weekends and public holidays’ excludes ordinary weekdays.