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The term "tort" specifically refers to a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to another individual or entity, which is the foundation of tort law. This branch of law encompasses various wrongful acts, such as negligence, defamation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, that can result in legal liability. In a tort case, the injured party can seek compensation or damages from the party that caused the harm, provided they can establish that the tortfeasor (the person who committed the tort) acted in a manner that meets the legal criteria for the tort in question.

Understanding that a tort is distinct from criminal acts and breaches of contract is crucial. While a breach of contract relates to the violation of a binding agreement between parties, and a criminal offense involves actions that are prosecuted by the state, torts exist primarily to resolve disputes between private parties regarding wrongful acts that result in harm. Additionally, ethical dilemmas for legal professionals do not directly relate to the definition or context of a tort, but rather pertain to the moral responsibilities and standards expected of individuals in the legal profession. This distinction helps clarify why the correct interpretation of "tort" emphasizes its role in civil law as a means of addressing and compensating for wrongful actions that cause