Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

malpractice

noun

/mælˈpræk.tɪs/

Definition

Malpractice refers to professional negligence or misconduct by a person, typically in the fields of medicine or law, where their actions fail to meet the accepted standards of practice, resulting in harm to a patient or client.

Examples

A doctor can be sued for malpractice if he provides substandard care that causes harm to a patient.
Legal malpractice occurs when a lawyer fails to competently represent their client, resulting in financial loss.
The nurse was accused of malpractice after administering the wrong medication to a patient.

Meaning

The term ‘malpractice’ is commonly associated with professionals who have failed to perform their duties to the expected level of competence, leading to negative consequences for those they serve.