| Term | Definition |
| "We the people of the United States..." | emphasized 2 important parts of the government: the people and state govt. |
| "... in order to form a more perfect union..." | avoid offending authors of Articles of Confederation, states union came before Constitution |
| "... establish justice..." | to ensure that everyone is treated equally under the law |
| "... insure domestic tranquility..." | "peace at home" |
| "... provide for the common defense..." | protect the people (army, navy, etc) |
| "... promote the general welfare..." | community comes together to provide common welfare; "universal healthcare" |
| "... and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and posterity..." | ensure liberty to us and future population |
| "... do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America." | grant authority, refers to King George and his monarchy |