Defamatory 7 Little Words
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
In the game “7 Little Words,” the clue “defamatory” corresponds to the answer “libelous,” an 8-letter word.
“Libelous” refers to statements that are defamatory, specifically in written or published form, which can harm someone’s reputation. Defamation involves making false statements that damage another person’s reputation, and it is categorized into two types: libel and slander. Libel pertains to written or published defamatory statements, while slander refers to spoken ones.
In legal contexts, for a statement to be considered libelous, it typically must be:
- False: The statement must be untrue.
- Defamatory: It must harm the reputation of the person it’s about.
- Published: The statement has been communicated to at least one person other than the subject.
- Unprivileged: The statement isn’t protected by legal privilege (e.g., certain statements made in court).
The distinction between libel and slander is significant because, traditionally, libel (being in a fixed medium like writing or images) was considered more harmful due to its lasting nature, whereas slander was seen as temporary. This distinction affects legal proceedings and potential damages awarded in defamation cases.
Understanding the term “libelous” is essential, as it underscores the importance of responsible communication. Making libelous statements can lead to legal consequences, including lawsuits for damages caused to someone’s reputation. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that any statements made about others, especially in written or published form, are truthful and not harmful to their reputation.
In summary, the term “libelous” is directly related to defamatory written statements that can harm an individual’s reputation, distinguishing it from spoken defamation, known as slander. This distinction is important in both legal contexts and everyday communication.