How can battery be differentiated from assault?

The correct distinction between battery and assault lies in the nature of the actions involved. Assault can indeed occur without any physical contact; it is primarily defined as the act of creating apprehension or fear of imminent harm in another person. This means that even a verbal threat, combined with an apparent ability to carry it out, can be classified as assault.

On the other hand, battery specifically requires actual physical contact. It involves harmful or offensive touching of another person, which may or may not cause injury. Therefore, while battery necessitates a physical action, assault can occur purely through the threat of such action, making it possible for someone to commit assault without physically touching their victim. This understanding is crucial for differentiating between the two offenses in legal contexts.