ultra vires

American  

[uhl-truh vahy-reez] / ˌʌl trə ˈvaɪ riz /

adverb

Law.

1. beyond the legal power or authority of a corporation, corporate officer, etc. (opposed to intra vires).

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ultra vires British  

/ ˈvaɪriːz /

adverb

1. (predicative) law beyond the legal power or authority of a person, corporation, agent, etc

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Etymology

Origin of ultra vires

First recorded in 1785–95; Latin: literally, beyond strength

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ultra vires

"The process that was adopted in relation to the flag was plainly incorrect, ultra vires and clearly cannot be sustained in law," counsel said.

From BBC ● Dec. 2, 2025

For instance, just beyond the unions’ ultra vires argument—i.e., the OPM can’t promise money that Congress hasn’t appropriated—is the fact that the Congressional Budget Office hasn’t produced a cost estimate, as is mandated by law.

From Slate ● Feb. 7, 2025

More broadly, Kempf said, the bills would pose risks to schools and educators in the form of potential ultra vires claims, which enable citizens to sue public officials who violate state laws.

From Salon ● Jan. 10, 2023

Having been burned so badly for her participation in post-9/11 interrogations, she is likely to be on her guard against future orders to act ultra vires.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 15, 2018

Sir Henry James appeared to think that they made the suspension of the Habeas Corpus Act ultra vires.

From The Framework of Home Rule by Erskine Childers

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