Offset
/ˈɒf.sɛt/
Definitions
- (n.) A legal claim or right that a party asserts to reduce or cancel a debt or obligation owed to another party.
The defendant raised an offset to decrease the amount of damages payable.
- (n.) The act of counterbalancing or deducting one sum from another, commonly used in contracts and settlements.
The contract allowed an offset against payments due for prior overcharges.
- (v.) To counterbalance or deduct one amount against another, especially in financial or contractual contexts.
The tenant offset the repair costs against the rent owed.
Forms
- offsets
- offsetting
- offset (past tense)
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal drafting, clearly specify whether the offset is permissive or mandatory within agreements to avoid ambiguity.
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.