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Malfeasance: companion reading notes
Malfeasance (noun): Wrongful conduct, especially by someone carrying out an official or professional duty.
How to use it
This formal term is stronger than an ordinary mistake. In discussion, distinguish an allegation from an established finding. This vocabulary note does not decide whether a particular act meets a legal definition.
Examples to practise aloud
- The fictional report alleged malfeasance in the handling of public funds.
- The inquiry examined whether the conduct amounted to malfeasance.
Check your understanding
Should every typing error automatically be called malfeasance?
Check your answer
No. The term suggests wrongful conduct, especially in a position of responsibility, rather than any accidental error.
Make it your own
Choose one example above and change its situation while keeping the meaning of malfeasance. Say your new sentence aloud, then check the word form and tone against the usage note.
Turn watching into practice
- Listen for a word or phrase you want to learn. Pause and repeat it aloud.
- Write its meaning in your own words, then replay to check your understanding.
- Create a sentence about your own life. Say it aloud without looking at your notes.