Which of the following describes a tort?

A tort is defined as a civil wrong that occurs when one party's actions cause harm or injury to another, resulting in legal liability. It encompasses a wide range of wrongful acts, including negligence, defamation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The essence of a tort lies in the violation of one individual's rights by another, which is addressed through civil lawsuits rather than criminal prosecution.

Understanding torts is essential because they establish legal grounds for holding individuals or entities accountable for the harm they cause, allowing the injured party to seek compensation. This is distinct from a legal agreement (which would fall under contract law), a crime (which involves violations against the state), or a contract violation (which pertains specifically to the terms of an agreement between parties). Each of these areas has its own legal frameworks and implications, but tort law is focused on redressing personal grievances and protecting individual rights from wrongful acts.