52.202-1 Definitions
Source: FAR 52.202-1 on acquisition.gov
FAR 52.202-1 ensures that contract terms are interpreted consistently using FAR 2.101 definitions unless a specific exception applies, reducing ambiguity in federal contracts.
Overview
FAR 52.202-1, "Definitions," establishes that any word or term used in a solicitation provision or contract clause that is defined in the FAR will have the same meaning as the definition in FAR 2.101, unless specific exceptions apply. This clause ensures consistency in the interpretation of terms across federal contracts, reducing ambiguity and potential disputes. Exceptions include cases where the solicitation or contract provides a different definition, the parties agree to a different meaning, a different definition is provided in the relevant FAR part, the term is defined in FAR part 31 for cost principles, or the term relates to an acquisition threshold adjusted for inflation under FAR 1.109. This clause is required in solicitations and contracts as prescribed in FAR 2.201.
Key Rules
- Default to FAR 2.101 Definitions
- Terms used in solicitations or contracts default to the definitions in FAR 2.101 unless otherwise specified.
- Exceptions to Default Definitions
- Different definitions may apply if specified in the solicitation, agreed upon by the parties, provided in the relevant FAR part, defined in FAR part 31, or if the term is an acquisition threshold adjusted for inflation.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure the clause is included in solicitations and contracts and clarify definitions as needed.
- Contractors: Must interpret terms according to FAR 2.101 unless an exception applies and review solicitations for any alternate definitions.
- Agencies: Oversee consistent application and interpretation of definitions in contracts.
Practical Implications
- This clause exists to standardize definitions and minimize confusion in federal contracting.
- Contractors must be vigilant for any exceptions or alternate definitions in solicitations or contracts.
- Misinterpretation of terms can lead to compliance issues or disputes, so careful review is essential.
As prescribed in 2.201 , insert the following clause:
Definitions (Jun 2020)
When a solicitation provision or contract clause uses a word or term that is defined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), the word or term has the same meaning as the definition in FAR 2.101 in effect at the time the solicitation was issued, unless-
(a) The solicitation, or amended solicitation, provides a different definition;
(b) The contracting parties agree to a different definition;
(c) The part, subpart, or section of the FAR where the provision or clause is prescribed provides a different meaning;
(d) The word or term is defined in FAR part 31, for use in the cost principles and procedures; or
(e) The word or term defines an acquisition-related threshold, and if the threshold is adjusted for inflation as set forth in FAR 1.109(a), then the changed threshold applies throughout the remaining term of the contract, unless there is a subsequent threshold adjustment; see FAR 1.109(d).
(End of clause)