Which two forms of defamation differ primarily in their mode of delivery?

Slander and libel represent two distinct forms of defamation based on how the defamatory statements are communicated. Slander involves verbal statements that are made in person, while libel pertains to written or published statements that can include content in print, online articles, or other forms of media. The key difference lies in the medium: slander occurs through spoken words, essentially damaging someone's reputation by making false statements in person, whereas libel involves the dissemination of damaging falsehoods through a permanent medium. Understanding this distinction is crucial in legal contexts, as it influences the type of evidence needed to prove defamation and may also impact the severity of potential damages awarded in a lawsuit.