Understanding the Difference Between Libel and Slander

The Difference Between Libel and Slander

Words sometimes hurt people. “Libel” and “slander” are about hurting people with words, but they are different things. Let’s learn about them!

History of Libel and Slander

Both words talk about saying bad things about someone. These words have been around for a long time. They come from old times when hurting someone’s good name was a big problem.

• Libel: This word comes from the Latin word “libellus,” which means “little book.” In the past, people wrote bad things about others in books or papers.
• Slander: This word comes from the Latin word “scandalum,” which means “a cause of offense.” Slander is about saying bad things aloud.

How to Use Libel and Slander

Libel and slander both involve saying bad things, but the difference is in how you say them.

• Libel: Libel is when you write bad things about someone. It is printed, written, or shown on TV or online.
• Slander: Slander is when you say bad things about someone. It is spoken out loud.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here is a simple trick to remember: Libel has the letter “L” for “Letter” or “Library,” meaning it is written. Slander has the letter “S” for “Speak,” meaning it is spoken.

Examples of Libel

1. The newspaper wrote an article with libel about the mayor.
2. Posting lies on social media can be libel.
3. He sued the magazine for libel because they printed false news.
4. Writing false things in a book about someone is libel.
5. A libel case can be serious if the writing hurts someone’s job.

Examples of Slander

1. The store clerk was accused of slander after telling lies about a customer.
2. At the meeting, she said something that was slander about her boss.
3. Saying false things on the radio can be slander.
4. He used slander to harm his rival’s reputation.
5. Telling lies loudly in the street might be considered slander.

Summary

Libel and slander are both about hurting someone’s reputation:

• Libel: Written or printed lies.
• Slander: Spoken lies.

Remember the trick: Libel is about letters (writing), and slander is about speaking.