Which term means failing to perform a required duty?

Which term means failing to perform a required duty?

• A. Neglect
• B. Dereliction
• C. Misfeasance
• D. Nonfeasance

Answer: (D)

Failing to perform a required duty means not acting when you are obligated to act. In fire inspection and code enforcement, professionals have a duty to inspect, enforce, and respond to violations. If that duty is not carried out, the term that fits this situation is nonfeasance. Neglect refers more generally to a lack of proper care or attention, not necessarily a formal duty to act. Dereliction implies willful abandonment of duties, a more intentional failure. Misfeasance means performing a duty but doing it improperly. So the specific failure to take action when there is an obligation to act is nonfeasance.

Failing to perform a required duty means not acting when you are obligated to act. In fire inspection and code enforcement, professionals have a duty to inspect, enforce, and respond to violations. If that duty is not carried out, the term that fits this situation is nonfeasance.

Neglect refers more generally to a lack of proper care or attention, not necessarily a formal duty to act. Dereliction implies willful abandonment of duties, a more intentional failure. Misfeasance means performing a duty but doing it improperly. So the specific failure to take action when there is an obligation to act is nonfeasance.