What constitutes battery in legal terms?

Battery, in legal terms, is defined as the unlawful use of force against another person, which includes any intentional and non-consensual touching. This means that even if physical harm is not inflicted, simply touching another person without their consent can be classified as battery. This principle is rooted in the idea of personal autonomy and the individual's right to control their own body. Consent is a critical factor; without it, even minor contact can lead to a battery claim.

The other options reflect different legal concepts. Threatening to inflict harm pertains to the concept of assault, which involves creating a fear of imminent harm rather than actual physical contact. Making a false statement relates to defamation, while attempting to deceive someone corresponds to fraud. Thus, these options do not align with the definition of battery, which focuses specifically on the act of unwanted and harmful touching.