unerlaubte Handlung
feminine
The English phrase 'tort' is translated into German as unerlaubte Handlung.
In a legal context, a tort refers to a wrongful act that is non-criminal and unrelated to a contract, which results in an injury. In German, this concept is expressed using the term unerlaubte Handlung.
Meaning: wrongful act, regarded as non-criminal and unrelated to a contract, which causes an injury (noun)
Which one should you use?
While unerlaubte Handlung is the standard term, the word Delikt is also used to represent 'tort' in more formal settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form unerlaubte Handlung is a feminine noun.
Did you know?
- While unerlaubte Handlung means 'unpermitted act', the word Handlung also means 'plot' in the context of a movie or book. This creates a linguistic link between a legal cause of action and a narrative arc.
- Unlike English common law, which relies heavily on judicial precedents for 'torts', the German unerlaubte Handlung is primarily defined by a specific set of codified statutes in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch.
- In German legal terminology, the word Delikt is used for both civil torts and criminal offenses. This differs from English, where 'tort' specifically excludes crimes.
Examples in context
- Das ist ein klassisches Delikt.That is a classic tort.
- Er wurde für die unerlaubte Handlung verklagt.He was sued for the wrongful act.
- Die unerlaubte Handlung verursachte den Schaden.The wrongful act caused the damage.
Example conversation
Julian and Julia are discussing a legal matter at home.
- JulianWar das eine unerlaubte Handlung?Was that a wrongful act?
- JuliaJa, Julian, das war eine unerlaubte Handlung.Yes, Julian, it was a wrongful act.
- JulianMüssen wir jetzt den Anwalt anrufen?Do we have to call the lawyer now?
- JuliaIch denke, das ist ratsam.I think that is advisable.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “tort” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
