maleficence

[muh-lef-uh-suhns]

maleficence Definition

  • 1the act of doing harm or evil, especially by a person who has power or responsibility to do good
  • 2an instance of harm or evil done by someone who has power or responsibility to do good

Using maleficence: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "maleficence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company was accused of maleficence for polluting the river.

  • Example

    The dictator's maleficence caused great suffering among his people.

  • Example

    The doctor's maleficence resulted in the patient's death.

maleficence Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for maleficence

Phrases with maleficence

  • the abuse of power by a public official for personal gain or to cause harm

    Example

    The politician was charged with maleficence in office for accepting bribes.

  • the deliberate intent to cause harm or evil

    Example

    The prosecutor argued that the defendant acted with maleficence of intention when he committed the crime.

  • the harm or evil caused by failing to take action or fulfill a duty

    Example

    The company was found guilty of maleficence of neglect for not providing adequate safety measures for its workers.

Origins of maleficence

from Latin 'maleficentia', meaning 'doing evil'

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Summary: maleficence in Brief

Maleficence [muh-lef-uh-suhns] refers to the act of doing harm or evil, especially by someone who has power or responsibility to do good. It can also refer to an instance of harm or evil done by such a person. Examples include pollution by a company, suffering caused by a dictator, and a doctor's mistake resulting in a patient's death. Phrases like 'maleficence in office' and 'maleficence of intention' denote specific types of maleficence.