FAR 2.000—Scope of part.
Plain-English Summary
FAR 2.000 explains the scope and function of FAR Part 2, which is the part of the FAR devoted to definitions. It tells readers that Part 2 does three things: it defines words and terms that are used frequently throughout the FAR, it points readers to other FAR definitions of the same word or term when those exist, and it allows those definitions to be incorporated into solicitations and contracts by reference. The section also makes clear that definitions can appear elsewhere in the FAR—in other parts, subparts, or sections—and that those definitions apply only within the specific location where they are stated unless the regulation says otherwise. In practice, this section matters because it helps contracting personnel and contractors interpret FAR language consistently, avoid conflicting meanings, and know when a term has a broad FAR-wide meaning versus a narrower, local meaning. It is a roadmap for using definitions correctly in acquisition documents and for understanding that context controls when a term is defined in more than one place.
Key Rules
Part 2 is the definitions part
This part is intended to define words and terms that are frequently used in the FAR. Its purpose is to provide a common vocabulary for federal acquisition rules and documents.
Cross-references to duplicate terms
When the same word or term is defined elsewhere in the FAR, Part 2 provides cross-references to those other definitions. This helps users find the applicable definition without guessing or relying on memory.
Definitions may be incorporated by reference
Part 2 also supports incorporating FAR definitions into solicitations and contracts by reference. This allows acquisition documents to use FAR-defined terms without restating every definition in full.
Local definitions can be limited
Other parts, subparts, and sections of the FAR may define additional words or terms. Unless the regulation indicates otherwise, those definitions apply only within the specific part, subpart, or section where they appear.
Context controls meaning
A term may have different meanings depending on where it is defined in the FAR. Users must check the specific location of the definition to determine whether it applies broadly across the FAR or only in a limited context.
Responsibilities
Contracting Officers
Use the correct FAR definition when drafting solicitations, contracts, and related documents; include definitions by reference when appropriate; and verify whether a term has a general FAR meaning or a narrower definition in another part of the regulation.
Contractors
Read FAR-defined terms carefully in solicitations and contracts, check for cross-referenced definitions, and avoid assuming that a term means the same thing in every FAR context.
Agency Acquisition Personnel
Apply definitions consistently in acquisition planning, solicitation preparation, and contract administration; ensure that any incorporated definitions are used accurately and do not conflict with more specific definitions elsewhere in the FAR.
Regulatory Users and Practitioners
Consult Part 2 as the starting point for understanding FAR terminology, then look to other parts, subparts, or sections when a term is specifically defined there for limited use.
Practical Implications
Always check whether a term is defined in Part 2 or elsewhere in the FAR before relying on a plain-English meaning.
A term can have more than one FAR definition, so the location of the definition matters as much as the wording itself.
When preparing solicitations or contracts, incorporating definitions by reference can reduce repetition, but only if the referenced definitions are clearly applicable.
A common pitfall is assuming a definition from one FAR part applies everywhere; FAR 2.000 warns that many definitions are limited to the section where they appear.
For disputes, interpretation, or compliance reviews, the first question should be: where is the term defined, and does that definition apply to this document or only to a specific FAR provision?
Official Regulatory Text
(a) This part- (1) Defines words and terms that are frequently used in the FAR; (2) Provides cross-references to other definitions in the FAR of the same word or term; and (3) Provides for the incorporation of these definitions in solicitations and contracts by reference. (b) Other parts, subparts, and sections of this regulation ( 48 CFR chapter 1 ) may define other words or terms and those definitions only apply to the part, subpart, or section where the word or term is defined.