but-for

adjective

: of or relating to the necessary cause (as a negligent act) without which a particular result (as damage) would not have occurred
a but-for test of causation
compare substantial factor

Cite this Entry

“But-for.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/but-for. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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