The statement must be factually incorrect. Truth is an absolute defense.
In an era where a spoken word can be instantly recorded and distributed to millions, the legal and social definition of has never been more relevant—or more complex. Often confused with its written sibling, libel, slander is a specific, potent form of defamation that can dismantle reputations in seconds. Defining the Damage: What is Slander? slander
It must be heard by someone other than the person being slandered. The Legal Threshold: Why Slander is Hard to Prove The statement must be factually incorrect
Furthermore, legal action requires proving actual damage, except in cases of slander per se —statements so inherently harmful (e.g., falsely accusing someone of a crime, infectious disease, or professional incompetence) that damage is assumed. The Digital Age: When Spoken Becomes Permanent Often confused with its written sibling, libel, slander