the letter of the law
US /ðə ˌlet.ər əv ðə ˈlɑː/
UK /ðə ˌlet.ər əv ðə ˈlɑː/
1.
the literal interpretation of a law or rule, rather than its spirit or intention
:
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He followed the letter of the law, but not its spirit, by technically fulfilling the contract without truly helping the client.
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Sometimes, applying the letter of the law can lead to unfair outcomes.