What do you mean by cardinal rule of construction?

The cardinal rule of construction, also known as the paramount or primary rule, is a fundamental principle used in legal interpretation to ascertain the true meaning of statutory or contractual provisions. It states that the primary objective of interpretation is to give effect to the intention of the lawmakers or parties involved, as expressed in the language of the statute or contract. In essence, the cardinal rule emphasizes that courts should interpret laws and contracts in a manner that gives effect to the plain and ordinary meaning of the words used, while also considering the context, purpose, and legislative history if necessary. The rule prioritizes the intention of the lawmakers or parties over other considerations, such as the literal or grammatical meaning of individual words or phrases.