Which term is defined as a false written or oral statement that harms another's reputation?

Which term is defined as a false written or oral statement that harms another's reputation?

• A. Slander
• B. Libel
• C. Publication
• D. Defamation

Answer: (D)

Defamation is the false statement of fact that harms someone’s reputation. It covers statements that are communicated to others, whether spoken or written. Libel is specifically written defamation, while slander is spoken defamation. Publication refers to the act of conveying the statement to a third party, not the statement itself. So defamation is the best fit because it encompasses both written and oral forms that damage reputation.

Defamation is the false statement of fact that harms someone’s reputation. It covers statements that are communicated to others, whether spoken or written. Libel is specifically written defamation, while slander is spoken defamation. Publication refers to the act of conveying the statement to a third party, not the statement itself. So defamation is the best fit because it encompasses both written and oral forms that damage reputation.