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Simple English definitions for legal terms
actionable word
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A quick definition of actionable word:
An actionable word is a word that is defamatory and can cause harm to someone's reputation. It is a type of libel, which is a statement that is expressed in writing or other forms of communication that can harm someone's reputation. Libel can be a crime and a tort, but it is no longer prosecuted as a crime. There are different types of libel, such as false-implication libel, group libel, libel per quod, libel per se, obscene libel, seditious libel, and trade libel. To libel someone means to defame them in writing or other permanent forms of communication.A more thorough explanation:
An actionable word is a term that is inherently defamatory. It is a type of libel that is considered to be harmful on its own, without the need for additional proof of damages.
For example, if someone writes or says "John is a thief," this is an actionable word because it is defamatory on its face. The statement is harmful to John's reputation and does not require any further explanation or context to be considered defamatory.
Other examples of actionable words include racial slurs, accusations of criminal behavior, and false statements about a person's character or abilities.
It is important to note that actionable words are not protected by free speech and can result in legal consequences for the person who made the statement.