defamation / slander
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defamation
The deliberate spreading of a false and defamatory claim about another person in order to damage their reputation. In contrast to 'üble Nachrede' (malicious gossip/defamation), in 'Verleumdung' (defamation) the perpetrator knows that the claim is false.
Er wurde wegen Verleumdung verklagt, nachdem er wissentlich Lügen über seinen Geschäftspartner verbreitet hatte.
He was sued for defamation after knowingly spreading lies about his business partner.
The noun 'die Verleumdung' (defamation) is derived directly from the verb 'verleumden' (to defame/slander). The ending '-ung' turns the action into a noun. Someone who commits 'eine Verleumdung' (an act of defamation) 'verleumdet' (defames) someone.
Er hat seinen Nachbarn verleumdet und muss nun mit einer Klage rechnen.
He defamed his neighbor and must now expect a lawsuit.
Since 'Verleumdung' (defamation) is a legal term, it is often used in legal contexts. Typical combinations are 'jemanden wegen Verleumdung anzeigen' (to report someone for defamation), 'eine Klage wegen Verleumdung' (a lawsuit for defamation), or 'sich gegen eine Verleumdung wehren' (to defend oneself against defamation).
Die Schauspielerin wehrte sich öffentlich gegen die Verleumdungen in der Presse.
The actress publicly defended herself against the defamations in the press.
'Verleumdung' (defamation) is a formal term used mainly in legal language and official contexts. In everyday language, people are more likely to speak of 'Lügen' (lies) or 'Gerüchten' (rumors).
Der offizielle Vorwurf lautet auf Verleumdung und üble Nachrede.
The official accusation is defamation and malicious gossip.
insult
'Beleidigung' and 'Verleumdung' both have to do with harming a person's honor or reputation. A 'Beleidigung' is usually a direct hurtful statement or action, for example an insult or swear word. 'Verleumdung' is more specific: someone deliberately spreads a false claim about a person so that others think badly of them. Learners may confuse the words because both can be hurtful. In practice: for a direct offense or insult, 'Beleidigung' is more suitable. When a false story is told about someone, 'Verleumdung' is more suitable.
Die Behauptung, der Kollege habe Geld gestohlen, war eine Verleumdung.
The claim that the colleague had stolen money was defamation.
Nach dem Streit entschuldigte sich Tom für die Beleidigung.
After the argument, Tom apologized for the insult.