boilerplates
Reusable contract language
Boilerplate originally referred to the rolled steel plates used to make boilers, then came to mean syndicated newspaper content distributed as metal printing plates.
Today boilerplate most often designates standardized text that can be reused without much change—the generic legal language in contracts, the standard paragraphs in press releases, the template code programmers drop into new projects.
The lawyer added the usual boilerplate about liability limitations.
The term often carries a slightly dismissive tone, suggesting text that's functional but unoriginal.
Grammatical or legal units
- contractsEnforceable written agreements
- templatesPreset formats for copying
- agreementsFormal mutual arrangements
- disclaimersStatements denying responsibility
terms · conditions · standard language · liability · indemnification · warranties · provisions · fine print
Preset formats for copying
- snippetsShort extracted pieces
- scaffoldingTemporary exterior work platform
- reusableFit for repeated service
- copy-pasteDuplicate then insert elsewhere
frameworks · modules · libraries · headers · footers · imports · declarations · README
Preset formats for copying
- proposalsFormal offers or plans
- pitchesThrows or proposals
- presentationsFormal informative addresses
- press releasesFormal announcements for journalists
mission statements · jargon · buzzwords · generic · formulaic · stock phrases · cover letters · resumes
Formulaic common sayings
- clichesOverused, predictable expressions
- formulaicFollowing a set template
- attributionsAssigned credits or sources
- disclaimersStatements denying responsibility
corrections · bylines · datelines · press releases · quotes · background · contact information · masthead
clauses
Grammatical or legal units
- contractsEnforceable written agreements
- templatesPreset formats for copying
- agreementsFormal mutual arrangements
disclaimers · terms · conditions · standard language · liability · indemnification · warranties · provisions · fine print · legalese
templates
Preset formats for copying
- snippetsShort extracted pieces
- scaffoldingTemporary exterior work platform
- reusableFit for repeated service
copy-paste · frameworks · modules · libraries · headers · footers · imports · declarations · README · configuration
templates
Preset formats for copying
- proposalsFormal offers or plans
- pitchesThrows or proposals
- presentationsFormal informative addresses
press releases · mission statements · jargon · buzzwords · generic · formulaic · stock phrases · cover letters · resumes · emails
stock phrases
Formulaic common sayings
- clichesOverused, predictable expressions
- formulaicFollowing a set template
- attributionsAssigned credits or sources
disclaimers · corrections · bylines · datelines · press releases · quotes · background · contact information · masthead