What is defined as a wrongful act leading to harm to another person, not under contract?

The correct answer is defined as a tort, which refers to a wrongful act that causes harm or injury to another person and is not based on a contractual obligation. Torts encompass a wide range of civil wrongs, including both intentional acts and unintentional actions that cause harm. The concept of tort law is vital, as it serves to provide relief to the injured party and deter others from committing similar offenses.

In tort law, liability is established when an individual or entity is found responsible for causing harm due to their actions or negligence. While negligence can be a specific type of tort characterized by a failure to exercise reasonable care that results in damage or injury, it is just one aspect of the broader category of torts. Misconduct typically refers to inappropriate or illegal behavior, which may not necessarily cause harm to another person in a legal sense and is also not exclusive to civil law scenarios. Thus, in this context, tort is the most accurate term that captures the essence of a wrongful act leading to harm without a contractual relationship.