Definition
A contract violation so significant it essentially destroys the entire agreement, not just a minor hiccup. It's the difference between being five minutes late to a meeting and not showing up for six months.
Example Usage
Failing to deliver the custom software was a material breach that entitled our client to cancel the entire contract and demand a refund.
Origin
From contract law doctrine distinguishing major from minor breaches
Fun Fact
Courts use the 'material breach' concept to decide whether the injured party can walk away from the contract or must continue performing while suing for damages.
Source: Common contract law terminology
Related Terms
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See “material breach” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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