Malpractice: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in professional settings to describe improper, illegal, or unethical behavior, often by a doctor or lawyer, leading to harm or damage.

• The doctor was sued for medical malpractice after the surgery went wrong.
• Legal malpractice can lead to severe consequences, including disbarment.

Implies a failure to take proper care, resulting in damage or harm, commonly used in legal and medical contexts.

• The company was accused of negligence after the safety incident.
• Due to his negligence, the patient did not receive the critical treatment in time.

Refers to unacceptable or improper behavior, especially by an employee or a professional, that is in violation of rules or ethics.

• The teacher was dismissed for professional misconduct.
• The CEO faced allegations of misconduct after the internal audit.

Describes the lack of ability, skill, or knowledge to perform a task effectively, often used in workplace or professional settings.

• The project failed due to the manager's incompetence.
• His incompetence in handling the machinery led to several delays.