Which of the following defines a tortious act?

A tortious act is best defined as a private wrong or injury for which legal remedy is sought. This means that when one party's actions cause harm or injury to another party outside of a contractual obligation, the injured party may seek compensation or remedy through the legal system. Tort law typically addresses situations such as personal injury, defamation, and negligence, where the injured party can file a lawsuit to recover damages.

In this context, tortious acts do not relate to breaches of contract, which involve the failure to perform according to agreed-upon terms. Public crimes are offenses against the state that do not typically fall under tort law, as they are prosecuted criminally rather than civilly. Legal duties owed to society are broader obligations that encompass various laws and regulations but do not specifically define a tortious act. Thus, the definition centered on private wrongs or injuries is what makes it the correct choice.