How is 'force majeure' defined in contracts?

In contracts, 'force majeure' refers to unforeseen events or circumstances that prevent a party from fulfilling their contractual obligations. These events are typically outside the control of the parties involved and can include natural disasters, wars, epidemics, or other significant occurrences that make performance of the contract impossible or impractical. The concept of force majeure allows for the suspension or termination of obligations without liability, providing protection to the affected party when external factors render compliance unfeasible.

The other choices do not align with this definition. Intentional default refers to a deliberate failure to meet contract terms, which is not covered under force majeure. Insurable interest is related to the financial interest in a contract's outcomes but does not pertain to unforeseen events. Mutual agreement to amend the contract involves all parties agreeing to change terms, which is distinctly different from the involuntary nature of force majeure. Thus, the chosen answer accurately encapsulates the essence of what force majeure constitutes in contractual agreements.