Vicarious

/vɪˈkɛəriəs/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Experienced or felt by watching, hearing, or reading about someone else rather than by doing something oneself.
    She took a vicarious pleasure in her friend's success.
  2. (adj.) Done or suffered by one person acting as a substitute for another, especially in legal responsibility or liability.
    The company may be held vicariously liable for its employee's actions.

Forms

  • vicariously

Commentary

Often used in legal contexts to describe liability imposed on one party for the actions of another; clear attribution is crucial in drafting.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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