What is the definition of a tort?

A tort is defined as a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to another person, and option B accurately captures this definition. It involves an act or failure to act that results in injury or damage to another individual, leading to legal liability for the party at fault. In tort law, the injured party may seek compensation for their losses through a civil lawsuit, which differentiates torts from criminal offenses that are prosecuted by the government.

Understanding that a tort is a civil matter helps clarify its distinction from other legal concepts. For example, a tort is not a type of criminal offense, as indicated in option A. Criminal offenses involve actions that are condemned by society and can lead to imprisonment or other penalties, while torts pertain to private disputes between individuals or organizations.

Additionally, a tort is unrelated to contractual agreements, as suggested by option C. Contract law deals with breaches of agreements between parties, while tort law addresses wrongs that occur outside of contractual relationships.

Finally, a tort should not be confused with legislative acts or laws, as option D implies. Torts are established through case law and court decisions rather than being enacted by legislative bodies. This understanding reinforces the importance of recognizing torts as civil wrongs specifically aimed at providing remedies to individuals harmed