Definition

Noun (plural) 1. A sum of money paid in compensation for loss or injury: A monetary award ordered by a court to be paid to a person as compensation for a legal wrong, such as a breach of contract or a tort (e.g., personal injury, property damage).

Usage

The word "damages" is almost exclusively used in a legal or formal context. It refers specifically to the financial compensation awarded, not to the physical harm or loss itself. It is treated as a plural noun.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The court ordered the company to pay damages to the injured worker.
  • She sued for damages after the car accident.
  • The plaintiff was awarded substantial damages for defamation.

Advanced Usage

• "to claim/seeksue for damages": To formally request monetary compensation through a legal process.
  • The tenant decided to sue for damages after the landlord failed to repair the leaking roof.
• "to award/grant damages": The action of a court or judge in deciding to give compensation.
  • The jury awarded the victim punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages.
• "to pay damages": The action of the responsible party providing the compensation.
  • The manufacturer was forced to pay millions in damages.

Variants and Related Words

• Compensatory damages (n): Money intended to directly compensate the plaintiff for the actual loss suffered (e.g., medical bills, lost wages).
• Punitive/exemplary damages (n): Money intended to punish the defendant for particularly wrongful conduct and to deter similar conduct in the future.
• Nominal damages (n): A very small sum awarded when a legal wrong is found but no significant financial loss is proven.
• Liquidated damages (n): A pre-agreed sum specified in a contract to be paid as compensation if the contract is breached.
• Damage (n, singular): Physical harm that impairs the value, usefulness, or normal function of something.

Synonyms

• Compensation: Something, typically money, awarded to someone as a recompense for loss, injury, or suffering.
• Indemnity: Security or protection against a loss or other financial burden; a sum paid as compensation.
• Redress: Remedial action or compensation for a wrong or grievance.
• Restitution: The restoration of something lost or stolen to its proper owner; compensation for loss or injury.

Related Phrases

• "To be liable for damages": To be legally responsible for paying compensation.
  • If you are found negligent, you could be liable for damages.
• "An action for damages": A lawsuit where the primary goal is to obtain monetary compensation.
  • He brought an action for damages against his former employer.

Noun

1. a sum of money paid in compensation for loss or injury