What does slander refer to?

Slander specifically refers to the act of making a false oral statement about another person that can damage their reputation. This form of defamation is focused on verbal communication, distinguishing it from libel, which pertains to written statements. When someone makes an untrue spoken remark that could harm another's character or standing in society, it is categorized as slander.

Understanding slander is important because it emphasizes the legal and ethical responsibilities we have in our communications with others. It highlights how spoken words can have significant consequences, just like written words. Additionally, while defamation is a broader term encompassing both slander and libel, the specifics of slander focus solely on the oral aspect, which is why the statement regarding it being about a false oral statement is accurate.