Defamation vs Slander

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

	Defamation	Slander
Meaning	Saying false things that harm someone's reputation.	Saying false things about someone that hurt their reputation.
Register	formal	formal
Usage notes	Used in legal contexts to describe harmful statements. Not commonly used in casual conversation. Be cautious of similar terms like 'slander' and 'libel'.	Used in legal contexts when referring to false statements. Not commonly used in casual conversation. More serious than gossip.

Frequently asked questions: Defamation vs Slander

What's the difference between "Defamation" and "Slander"?

"Defamation" means: Saying false things that harm someone's reputation. "Slander" means: Saying false things about someone that hurt their reputation.

When should I use "Defamation" and "Slander"?

"Defamation" is formal; "Slander" is formal.