How is "conversion" defined in tort law?

Conversion in tort law is defined as the unlawful taking or control of someone else’s personal property. This definition captures the essence of conversion, which occurs when an individual treats another person's property as if it were their own, thereby denying the owner's rights to the property.

In the context of tort law, conversion does not require physical destruction of the property, but rather an interference with the owner’s use or possession of that property. It can occur through various means, such as wrongful possession, destruction, or misuse. The crucial factors are that the taking or control must be unlawful and that it deprives the true owner of their rights.

Other choices do not align with the legal definition of conversion. For instance, lawful taking of personal property does not constitute conversion as it implies permission or legal authority. The notion of negligence regarding returning borrowed items reflects a different legal principle, which pertains to a duty of care rather than the direct wrongful appropriation of property. Lastly, altering someone else's property without permission may fall under other torts, such as trespass or vandalism, but it does not encompass the complete essence of conversion as it focuses primarily on control rather than just alteration. Thus, the correct choice accurately represents the key legal concept of conversion.