defamation

Everyday

1. (law) Defamation is saying or writing something untrue about a person that damages their good name. tree →
2. Defamation in writing is called libel; spoken defamation is called slander. tree →

In the lessons

Met in news, media and law lessons. It tells the reader that someone is accused of spreading damaging lies, and can be taken to court. In lessons about gossip and the internet, pupils learn that posting false rumours can hurt people and even break the law. Phrases: «sue for defamation», «defamation of character», «a defamation case».

Examples

• The actor sued the newspaper for defamation. tree →
• Spreading lies online about someone can be defamation. tree →
• The judge said the article was defamation because it was not true. tree →
• A defamation case can cost a lot of money. tree →
• It isn't defamation if what you say is true and fair. tree →
• Calling someone a thief without proof could be defamation of character. tree →

Note

Uncountable. Verb: defame; adjective: defamatory. Pronounced def-a-MAY-shun. Trap: the key is «untrue» and «damaging»; an honest opinion or a proven fact is not usually defamation.