If you’re preparing for CLAT, AILET, or just starting law school, you’ve likely heard both terms — Tort Law and Torts Law. They sound similar, but is there a correct one? Or are both used interchangeably?
In this blog, we’ll break down the confusion and help you understand the correct usage, meaning, and concept behind this essential subject in law.
First, What Is a Tort?
A tort is a civil wrong. It happens when someone’s act or omission causes harm to another person — physically, emotionally, or financially.
For example:
- Defamation
- Trespass
- Nuisance
- Negligence
- Assault
In tort law, the wrongdoer is held liable, and the injured party may receive compensation.
Tort Law vs. Torts Law: What’s the Difference?
Let’s look at both terms:
Tort Law
This refers to the branch of law that deals with civil wrongs. It focuses on the legal principles and rules that apply to wrongful acts.
Used when referring to the subject as a whole.
Example: “Tort law teaches us about liability and damages.”
Torts Law
This focuses more on the collection of different torts — such as defamation, negligence, and battery. It refers to specific types of wrongs within the broader subject.
Used when discussing individual torts or their classifications.
Example: “We studied the law of torts today, including assault and false imprisonment.”
So, Which One Is Correct?
Both are correct — but used in different contexts.
| Term | Best Used When You Talk About… |
|---|---|
| Tort Law | The subject or legal branch as a whole |
| Torts Law | The specific types or categories of torts |
In most Indian legal textbooks (including R.K. Bangia or P.S.A. Pillai), you’ll find the title “Law of Torts”, which reflects the plural — referring to a body of wrongs.
However, internationally, especially in the UK and US, “Tort Law” is more commonly used when speaking generally.
What Do Law Exams and CLAT Prefer?
In CLAT legal reasoning questions, you’ll mostly see the term “tort law” used in a general sense.
But it’s useful to know both and understand when to apply them. Examiners appreciate students who can identify the distinction between subject and substance.
Why Understanding Tort(s) Law Is Important
Torts are one of the first topics law students learn because they:
- Deal with everyday situations (like accidents or public nuisance)
- Build concepts like duty of care, liability, and damages
- Show up often in CLAT and law school exams
- Help improve your legal reasoning and judgment
Conclusion: It’s Not Either/Or — It’s Knowing When to Use What
So, is it Tort Law or Torts Law? The answer depends on the context.
Use “Tort Law” when referring to the subject broadly. Use “Torts Law” when you’re focusing on the individual types of torts. Both are acceptable — understanding the difference makes you a sharper legal thinker.
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