What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
misfeasance
Example
The doctor was sued for misfeasance after performing the wrong surgery. [misfeasance: noun]
Example
The mayor was accused of misfeasance for failing to address the city's infrastructure issues. [misfeasance: noun]
malfeasance
Example
The CEO was charged with malfeasance for embezzling company funds. [malfeasance: noun]
Example
The police officer was fired for malfeasance after using excessive force during an arrest. [malfeasance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Malfeasance is more commonly used than misfeasance in everyday language. Malfeasance is a more severe term and is often used in news articles and legal contexts. Misfeasance is less common and is typically used in legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between misfeasance and malfeasance?
Both misfeasance and malfeasance are formal terms used in legal contexts. However, malfeasance is typically associated with more serious and severe cases, while misfeasance is associated with less severe cases of improper behavior.
