What term refers to a less serious violation of a contract?

The term that refers to a less serious violation of a contract is "immaterial breach." An immaterial breach typically occurs when the violation does not substantially affect the contract's overall purpose or the party's ability to fulfill its obligations. In legal terms, such breaches often do not allow the non-breaching party to terminate the contract or seek damages beyond what is reasonably incurred due to the breach.

Immaterial breaches usually involve minor issues, such as delays in performance that do not compromise the essence of the contract or do not cause significant harm to the other party. This distinction is important as it helps parties understand the severity of a breach and what remedies may or may not be available following such an event.