How are amendments defined?

Amendments are defined as changes or additions to a document, particularly in the context of governing laws and constitutions. In the United States, for instance, the amendments to the Constitution are formal modifications that serve to clarify, expand, or limit the rights and responsibilities outlined within the original text. This definition is fundamental in understanding how legal documents evolve over time to reflect societal changes, address new issues, or enhance existing laws.

While a restriction on government powers is a vital aspect of certain amendments, particularly those that safeguard individual rights, it does not encompass the broader meaning of what an amendment is. Similarly, a ruling by the Supreme Court pertains to interpretations and applications of laws rather than modifications to the laws themselves. Lastly, while a proposal for new legislation may lead to amendments, it is a distinct process focused on creating new laws rather than modifying existing documents. Thus, the essence of an amendment lies in its role as a direct change or addition to a legal framework.