Libel is generally found in print and is basically a proven lie or falsehood about someone, with the intent of ruining their reputation or character.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary - Libel
li·bel noun \ˈlī-bəl\
: the act of publishing a false statement that causes people to have a bad opinion of someone
1 a : a written statement in which a plaintiff in certain courts sets forth the cause of action or the relief sought
2
a : a written or oral defamatory statement or representation that conveys an unjustly unfavorable impression
b (1) : a statement or representation published without just cause and tending to expose another to public contempt (2): defamation of a person by written or representational means (3) : the publication of blasphemous, treasonable, seditious, or obscene writings or pictures (4) : the act, tort, or crime of publishing such a libel
I guess what gets me so much with this word is that it sounds too much like Liable. To me and to a certain degree, they imply the same thing and seem a redundant use of the English language. Yes, I know they are different words and I know that they mean slightly different things, but why not create a different word that sounds nothing alike?
He was accused of libel for printing lies about the girl. He was liable for printing lies about the girl. Honestly, what's the difference at the end of the day? :<
Reference
Libel. (n.d.). Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved December 4, 2013, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/libel
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