Definitions
- Referring to an act of negligence or incompetence by a public official or professional. - Describing a mistake or error in judgment that results in harm or damage. - Talking about a legal term that refers to a lawful act done improperly or incorrectly.
- Referring to an illegal or wrongful act committed by a public official or professional. - Describing intentional wrongdoing or misconduct that violates the law or ethical standards. - Talking about a legal term that refers to a deliberate act of wrongdoing or abuse of power.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to actions taken by public officials or professionals.
- 2Both words have legal implications and can result in consequences.
- 3Both words involve some level of wrongdoing or improper behavior.
What is the difference?
- 1Nature of the act: Misfeasance refers to a lawful act done improperly, while malfeasance refers to an illegal or wrongful act.
- 2Intent: Misfeasance is often unintentional or due to negligence, while malfeasance is deliberate and intentional.
- 3Severity: Malfeasance is typically more severe and can result in criminal charges, while misfeasance is less severe and may result in civil liability.
- 4Legal implications: Misfeasance can result in liability for damages, while malfeasance can result in criminal charges and imprisonment.
- 5Scope: Misfeasance can refer to a wide range of improper actions, while malfeasance specifically refers to intentional wrongdoing or abuse of power.
Remember this!
Misfeasance and malfeasance are both terms used to describe improper actions taken by public officials or professionals. However, the difference between the two lies in the nature of the act, intent, severity, legal implications, and scope. Misfeasance refers to a lawful act done improperly or incorrectly, while malfeasance refers to an illegal or wrongful act committed intentionally. Misfeasance can result in civil liability, while malfeasance can result in criminal charges and imprisonment.
