Slander

What is Slander in Tort Law?

Slander is a form of defamation that involves making false, spoken statements that harm a person's reputation. Unlike libel, slander is transient and typically requires proof of actual damage to be actionable.

Quick Definition

Slander is a defamatory statement made orally that damages someone's reputation. It is considered less severe than libel due to its temporary nature and often requires evidence of specific harm.

In Context

Slander often occurs in everyday conversations or broadcasts where false statements can quickly spread and harm reputations. For example, if someone falsely accuses a colleague of theft during a meeting, it could be considered slander. A classic case is McManus v. Beckham (2002), where Victoria Beckham's comments in a shop were deemed potentially slanderous. In exams, understanding slander helps illustrate the nuances of defamation law and the importance of proving actual damage.

See Also

• Libel

• Defamation

• Actual Damage

Learn More

For a deeper dive into slander, including case studies and practical applications, check out our Tort Law Notes.