\begin{definition}[Definition:Local Gravitational Constant]
The '''local gravitational constant''' is the value of the acceleration $g$ caused by the gravitational field given rise to by whatever body or bodies are in a position to exert that gravitational force.
In the everyday context, $g$ is the acceleration due to the gravitational field of Earth at whatever point on or near its surface the observer happens to be.
Thus in this context it is approximately equal to $9 \cdotp 8 \ \mathrm m \ \mathrm s^{-2}$.
\end{definition}