Anticipation
/ˌæn.tɪ.sɪˈpeɪ.ʃən/
Definitions
- (n.) The act or doctrine of realizing or asserting a legal right or claim before it is due or before an event occurs, often in contract or property law.
The plaintiff's anticipation of breach justified immediate legal action.
- (n.) In patent law, referring to a prior art disclosure that predates and thus invalidates a patent claim.
The patent was invalidated due to anticipation by earlier published research.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In drafting, distinguish clearly whether anticipation concerns timing of rights assertion or patent law invalidity; context determines meaning.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.