The spelling of the phrase "material breach" (ˌməˈtɪəriəl briːtʃ) follows the standard English pronunciation. "Material" is spelled with three syllables: "muh-TEER-ee-uhl" with the stress on the second syllable. "Breach" is spelled with one syllable: "breech," with the "ea" pronounced like the "ee" in "see." A "material breach" refers to a significant violation of a contract or agreement, often resulting in legal consequences. This phrase is commonly used in business and legal contexts.
Material breach is a term used in contract law to describe a significant violation or failure to fulfill the terms and conditions of a contract. It refers to a breach that is so substantial that it goes to the root of the agreement, and it has serious consequences for the party affected by it. A material breach occurs when the breach is of such significance that it undermines the fundamental purpose of the contract and deprives the innocent party of the intended benefits.
The determination of whether a breach is material depends on the specific circumstances of each case and is often subject to interpretation by the courts. However, some common factors considered in assessing materiality include the magnitude of the breach, the impact on the non-breaching party's ability to fulfill their obligations, and the extent to which the breaching party deviated from the agreed-upon terms.
When a material breach occurs, the innocent party usually has the right to terminate the contract, seek damages, or seek specific performance. Termination may provide relief from any further obligations under the contract, while damages aim to compensate for losses suffered as a result of the breach. Specific performance refers to a court order compelling the breaching party to perform their contractual obligations as agreed.
In conclusion, a material breach is a substantial violation of a contract that goes to the core of the agreement, resulting in significant consequences for the innocent party.
The word "material breach" is derived from two root words: "material" and "breach".
- "Material" comes from the Latin word "materia", which means "substance" or "matter". Over time, it evolved to refer to the essential or significant nature of something. In various contexts, "material" generally denotes something important, crucial, or related to the matter at hand.
- "Breach" comes from the Old English word "bryce" or "brecan", which means "to break" or "to violate". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "brekanan" and shares its etymology with words like "break" and "broken". In legal terminology, a breach refers to the violation or failure to fulfill a legal obligation or duty.