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Malfeasance vs. Misfeasance vs. Nonfeasance

Malfeasance
Definition

Wrongful conduct by a public official

Examples

The mayor was convicted of malfeasance.

Misfeasance
Definition

Doing a proper act in a wrongful or injurious manner

Examples

Liable for misfeasance

Nonfeasance
Definition

A failure to act when under an obligation to do so; a refusal (without sufficient excuse) to do that which it is your legal duty to do

Examples

It was nonfeasance on their part because they were responsible

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