What term describes the situation when the obligations of a contract become impossible to perform due to unforeseen circumstances?

The term that describes a situation where the obligations of a contract become impossible to perform due to unforeseen circumstances is known as contract frustration. Contract frustration occurs when an unexpected event significantly changes the circumstances surrounding the agreement, making it impossible for one or both parties to fulfill their contractual obligations. This condition is typically acknowledged by law, which may relieve the parties from their obligations under those circumstances.

Contract termination, on the other hand, refers to the ending of a contract by mutual agreement or through specific contract provisions, but not necessarily due to unforeseen circumstances. Contract breach involves a party failing to meet the terms of the agreement, while a legal void refers to a situation where a contract is deemed unenforceable from the beginning, usually due to illegality or lack of capacity. Understanding contract frustration is crucial for recognizing how unforeseen events impact contractual obligations and the legal implications that follow.