What distinguishes defamation from slander?

Defamation refers to the broader category of false statements that harm an individual's reputation, encompassing both written and spoken forms. The distinction lies in how these statements are communicated. Slander specifically pertains to oral statements that are false and damaging, while libel refers to written or published statements that are equally harmful.

The correct answer highlights that defamation involves both print and oral communication, differentiating slander as a form of defamation that is verbally expressed. Thus, understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping the overall concept of defamation, as it informs individuals on the nature of the statement, its medium, and the legal implications involved in cases of reputation harm.

In contrast, other options either confuse the definitions of slander and defamation or suggest that there is no distinction, which overlooks the important nuances between types of defamatory statements.