MALEFACTION

Definition of MALEFACTION

MALEFACTION Noun

Malefaction is a noun that refers to the commission of an evil or wrongful act, particularly one that violates the law or moral standards. Here are several key aspects associated with the term malefaction:

Wrongful Act: Malefaction denotes an action that is morally or legally wrong, often involving harm, injury, or injustice inflicted upon others. It encompasses a broad range of offenses, from minor transgressions to serious crimes.

Violation of Law or Morality: Malefaction may involve the violation of established laws, regulations, or statutes, leading to legal consequences such as fines, imprisonment, or other penalties. It can also contravene ethical or moral standards, causing harm or detriment to individuals, society, or the common good.

Intent and Malice: Malefaction often implies an element of intent or malice on the part of the perpetrator, suggesting deliberate wrongdoing or harmful actions motivated by self-interest, malice, or ill will. It may involve premeditated acts aimed at causing harm or injury to others.

Legal and Ethical Implications: Malefaction has both legal and ethical implications, as it pertains to actions that are prohibited by law or condemned by prevailing moral norms. It may encompass various offenses such as theft, fraud, assault, or other forms of misconduct punishable under legal statutes.

Social and Individual Harm: Malefaction can result in harm or injury to individuals, communities, or society at large, undermining trust, safety, and well-being. It may contribute to social disorder, injustice, or inequality, eroding the fabric of civil society and impeding progress toward justice and equity.

Malefaction encompasses the commission of wrongful or evil acts that violate legal or moral standards, often involving harm, injury, or injustice inflicted upon others. Whether through deliberate malice or disregard for ethical norms, malefaction represents a breach of trust and a threat to the principles of justice, integrity, and human dignity.

MALEFACTION in a sentence

  • The accused was charged with numerous acts of malefaction against the community.
  • His malefaction tarnished his reputation irreparably, leaving him ostracized from society.
  • The authorities were determined to bring the perpetrators of the malefaction to justice.
  • Acts of malefaction are often met with severe consequences under the law.
  • The history books were filled with tales of war, conquest, and malefaction.
  • The detective spent years investigating the malefaction, uncovering a web of deceit and corruption.
  • The government vowed to crack down on malefaction within its borders, implementing stricter laws and enforcement measures.
  • Despite their attempts to cover up the malefaction, the truth eventually came to light, leading to widespread outrage and condemnation.

Etymology of MALEFACTION

The term malefaction has its etymological roots in Latin and English, providing insights into its linguistic origins.

  • Latin Influence: “Malefaction” is derived from the Latin word “malefactio,” which comes from “malefacere,” meaning “to do evil” or “to commit a crime.” In Latin, “malefactio” denoted the act of wrongdoing or criminal behavior.
  • English Formation: The term “malefaction” entered English from Middle French as “malefaccion,” maintaining its Latin-derived meaning of criminal or wrongful conduct. In English, it refers to the commission of an unlawful or immoral act, often with harmful consequences.
  • Semantic Context: In modern usage, “malefaction” describes any wrongful or criminal act committed with the intent to cause harm or injury to others. It encompasses a wide range of offenses, including crimes against persons, property, or public order.

The term malefaction thus reflects its etymological roots in Latin and Middle French, emphasizing its association with wrongful or criminal conduct.

Synonyms

  • Wrongdoing
  • Misdeed
  • Transgression
  • Infraction
  • Malfeasance
  • Offense
  • Crime
  • Sin

Antonyms

  • Righteousness
  • Virtue
  • Goodness
  • Uprightness
  • Integrity
  • Probity
  • Rectitude
  • Morality

Related

  • Wrong
  • Sin
  • Crime
  • Offense
  • Fault
  • Guilt
  • Blame
  • Immorality

🌐 🇬🇧 MALEFACTION in other languages

Terms of Use

Privacy & Cookies

Disclaimer

Who We Are

Main Sections

Idioms

Geographical Locations

Organisations

Professions

Let´s Talk

Contact

Instagram

® 2024 https://DefinitionGo.com