malpractice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "malpractice" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal and medical contexts to refer to professional negligence or misconduct by a professional, especially in healthcare. Example: "The doctor was sued for malpractice after failing to diagnose the patient's condition in a timely manner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A Hungarian midwife known for promoting home births has lost an appeal against her two-year prison sentence for malpractice.

The Guardian

It can hardly be argued that this case is unexceptional, unless it is to be taken that there is a lot of this kind of malpractice about.

The Guardian - Opinion

But there is abundant prima facie evidence of systemic malpractice that hardly requires more than a moment's reflection, and the IPCC has now acknowledged that the PCA did not investigate the complaints about the fabricated evidence against the miners.

The Guardian - Opinion

Two killers would still be walking the streets, and the exposure of large-scale malpractice in the police force may never have happened.

The Guardian - Opinion

A Scotland Yard spokesman said on Friday: "Sixteen allegations of electoral malpractice are being assessed by the Met".

The Guardian

His favourite example of malpractice was Enon Chapel, situated in slums north of the Strand.

The Guardian

In the second and third Tests of the recently-concluded Tests between South Africa and Australia, reverse played a key role in the outcome of the matches, with each side insinuating malpractice by the other.

The Guardian - Sport

Yes, we should hunt down malpractice and lobbying, but it seems to me that the BMJ have found no evidence that my research or that of SACN members has led to any undue influence in SACN decision-making or in my work within the Responsibility Deal.

The Guardian - Opinion

The systemic and politically motivated nature of the malpractice is reinforced by the cabinet papers revealed under the 30-year rule in January, which disclose a secret plan to close 75 coal mines.

The Guardian - Opinion

After being defeated by Naz Shah last month, the former Respect MP vowed to challenge the result in court, saying: "It has come to my notice that there has been widespread malpractice in this election, particularly over postal voting.

The Guardian

The Sinn Fein president, Gerry Adams, denied the allegations, and argued that early release of applications for postal votes to Unionist offices in the two constituencies before the election was called was malpractice.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "malpractice", clearly specify the profession or field involved to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "malpractice" when simply referring to a lack of skill or knowledge. "Malpractice" implies a violation of professional standards or negligence, not just a lack of competence.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "malpractice" is as a noun. It refers to improper, illegal, or negligent professional activity or treatment, especially by a medical practitioner, lawyer, or public official. Ludwig confirms this usage is correct and common in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Malpractice" is a noun that refers to improper or unethical conduct, particularly within professional settings like medicine or law. Ludwig AI validates its correct and frequent usage in written English, especially in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. When writing about professional errors, it's important to use "malpractice" when negligence or a breach of professional standards is involved, rather than just a lack of skill. Alternatives include "professional negligence" or "misconduct", depending on the specific context. The term carries a neutral tone and is commonly found in news reports and legal discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

professional misconduct

Focuses on the inappropriate or unacceptable behavior of a professional in their field.

professional negligence

Focuses specifically on negligence within a professional context, especially in fields like medicine or law.

negligent practice

Highlights carelessness or a lack of due diligence in one's professional activities.

dereliction of duty

Emphasizes the failure to fulfill one's responsibilities or obligations, applicable in various professional settings.

improper conduct

Refers to behavior that is inappropriate, unethical, or contrary to established norms.

official misconduct

Highlights improper behavior by someone in a position of authority or public office.

ethical violation

Refers to a breach of ethical principles or codes of conduct, applicable in professional and personal contexts.

breach of trust

Stresses the violation of confidence or faith placed in someone, particularly in fiduciary relationships.

abuse of power

Emphasizes the misuse of authority or influence for personal gain or to harm others.

legal wrongdoing

Indicates any action that contravenes the law, encompassing a broad range of illegal activities.

FAQs

How is "malpractice" typically used in a sentence?

Generally, "malpractice" functions as a noun. For example, "The doctor faced a lawsuit for "medical malpractice"" or "There was evidence of electoral "electoral malpractice" during the election".

What are some synonyms for "malpractice"?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms like "professional negligence", "misconduct", or "dereliction of duty" as alternatives to "malpractice".

What is the difference between "malpractice" and "negligence"?

"Negligence" is a broader term referring to a failure to exercise reasonable care. "Malpractice" specifically refers to negligence by a professional, such as a doctor or lawyer, in their professional capacity.

Can "malpractice" apply to fields other than medicine?

Yes, while often associated with medicine, "malpractice" can apply to other professions, like law or finance, where professionals have a duty to act responsibly and ethically. However, in non-medical fields it is better to use alternative expressions such as "professional misconduct" or "breach of duty".