WordValetort
a wrongful act leading to civil legal liability
In more detail
1. (noun) a wrongful act or damage caused to someone, for which the person who caused it can be sued in court for money compensation
Examples
- He filed a lawsuit for the tort of negligence after the car accident.
How to use tort
Tort is a technical legal term used in civil law to describe a wrongful act (other than breach of contract) that causes harm and entitles the victim to sue for damages. It is more formal and specific than the general term 'wrong' and is primarily used in legal contexts, distinguishing civil liability from criminal responsibility.
Common phrases
- commit a tort
- liable for a tort
- tort law
- tort reform
- civil tort
- personal injury tort
Synonyms
wrongful act · legal wrong · injury · damage · breach
Word family
tortious (adjective) · tortfeasor (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse tort with crime; a tort is a civil wrong pursued by a private lawsuit, whereas a crime is a criminal offense prosecuted by the state.
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