What defines a tort in legal terms?

A tort is defined as a legal wrong that causes harm or loss to another person or organization, resulting in a legal liability for the person who commits the act. This concept encompasses a wide range of wrongful acts, including those that are intentional, negligent, or even strict liability torts where intent or negligence is not a factor.

The essence of a tort lies in the duty of individuals to respect the rights of others and the legal consequences that arise when these rights are violated. For instance, if someone causes an accident that injures another individual due to careless behavior, that act can be classified as a tort, allowing the injured party to seek compensation for their losses.

This definition differentiates torts from other legal concepts, such as criminal acts which are offenses against the state, and breaches of contract which arise from violations of agreements between parties. It also distinguishes torts from mere unintentional acts, as the definition of a tort can encompass both intentional wrongdoing and negligence. Thus, the choice that accurately captures the essence of a tort is the legal wrong that results in a loss to another party.