Definition

1. Noun:
   • The performance of a lawful action in an improper, negligent, or wrongful manner: In law, "misfeasance" specifically refers to the improper or careless execution of a legal act or duty that one has the right or obligation to perform, resulting in harm to another.

Usage

• "Misfeasance" is a formal, legal term. It is used to describe a specific type of misconduct where an individual or entity, while performing a legitimate act or duty, does so in a way that is negligent, unskillful, or wrongful, leading to damage or injury.
• It is distinct from "nonfeasance" (failure to act) and "malfeasance" (the commission of an unlawful act).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The city was sued for misfeasance after a poorly maintained public sidewalk caused a pedestrian to fall and break her leg.
  • The contractor was accused of misfeasance for using substandard materials while building the house, which he was legally contracted to do.

Advanced Usage

• "Misfeasance in public office": A specific legal tort or offense where a public official lawfully exercises their power but does so improperly, with malice or negligence.
  • The investigation focused on potential misfeasance in public office by the licensing official.

Variants and Related Words

• Misfeasor (n): A person who commits misfeasance.
  • The court found the architect to be a misfeasor.

Synonyms

• Wrongful execution: Carrying out a task in a wrongful way.
• Improper performance: Performing a duty improperly.
• Negligent performance: Performing a duty with a lack of proper care.

Antonyms

• Nonfeasance: Failure to perform a required duty or act.
• Malfeasance: The commission of an act that is unequivocally illegal or wrongful.

Noun

1. doing a proper act in a wrongful or injurious manner