Most simply do not even try, saying that to do so would preclude one or other scopes of the branch of common law. However, we will throw caution to the wind. Tort is derived from the Latin word tortus which meant wrong. Tort refers to that body of the law which will allow an injured person to obtain compensation from the person who caused the injury. Every person is expected to conduct themselves without injuring others.
Compensation is probably the most important social role of tort law.
Tort also serves as a deterrent by holding persons responsible for their actions and to educate the community as to what is unacceptable conduct. This latter situation would be governed under the law of contract, and not tort law, and a whole different set of rules. Tort law is not the same as criminal law. A crime often leads to two very different branches of the law, one being tort law, the other being criminal law. Say I punched you in the nose.