
Libel
Written Form
Libel involves written or published statements, unlike slander, which is spoken.
Posting false accusations on social media can be considered libel.
Public Harm
For a statement to be libel, it must be shared publicly and harm someone's reputation.
A blog post that falsely claims a teacher stole school funds is libel.
Truthful Defense
If a statement is true, it cannot be libel, even if it harms someone's reputation.
A journalist cannot be sued for libel when accurately reporting a politician's scandal.
Compare with
CalumnyDefamationFalsehoodMalignSlanderSmearTraduceVilification
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension