Updated August 2023
The differences between the definitions of libel and slander are easy to remember.
Libel: Libel refers to dubious written statements that are presented as facts and are damaging to one’s character. If a newspaper prints an article about the misdeeds of a politician, the newspaper is guilty of libel—as long as the allegations are untrue.
Slander: If the politician’s ex-wife goes around town telling everyone fibs about what a crook her former husband is, she is guilty of slander.
So, in a nutshell:
Libel = written falsehoods that do damage.
Slander = spoken falsehoods that do damage.
Here’s an easy way to remember the difference: Slander is Spoken.
And now you know the difference between libel and slander and you can use these words the correct way from now on!
Thanks for the simple but powerful guideline! (If you’re going to be a professional writer with credibility, then getting these sorts of things right goes without saying.)
Best