Which of the following terms best defines legal responsibility for a wrongful act?

The term that best defines legal responsibility for a wrongful act is "liability." Liability refers to the state of being responsible for something, especially in a legal context. It indicates that an individual or organization can be held accountable for actions that cause harm or injury to another party. This concept encompasses various types of wrongful acts for which someone can be sued or face legal consequences.

In legal terms, liability can arise from various situations, including breaches of duty, negligence, or intentional acts that result in harm. It is a broad term that encapsulates the notion of holding someone responsible under the law, whether in civil or criminal cases. Understanding liability is crucial for individuals and organizations to implement practices that minimize legal risks and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.

While "tort" specifically refers to civil wrongs that can lead to legal liability, it is a narrower concept. "Delict" is often used in jurisdictions that follow civil law to describe similar wrongful acts but is less commonly used in common law contexts. "Negligence" refers to a specific type of tort, typically involving a failure to take reasonable care, but it does not encompass all forms of legal responsibility. Consequently, liability is the most comprehensive term to describe legal responsibility for wrongful acts.