The frustration of purpose doctrine applies when a party to a contract expresses or clearly implies an intention not to perform to contract,even before being required to act.

Frustration of Purpose

A legal defense allowing parties to terminate a contract when an unforeseen event undermines the contract's principal purpose, rendering it impossible to fulfill.

Doctrine

A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a church, political party, or other group.

Intention

A psychological state involving a commitment or determination to carry out a specific action or achieve a specific outcome.