Constitutional: meaning, definitions and examples

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constitutional

 

[ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

law

relating to an established set of principles governing a state

Synonyms

lawful, legal, legitimate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
constitutional

Also can be used to describe a walk taken for health purposes, though this usage is less common.

  • He enjoys taking a constitutional around the park every morning.
legal

Used broadly to describe something that is allowed by law or relates to the law. It is common in everyday and professional contexts.

  • She sought legal advice before signing the contract.
  • The substance is legal in some states.
lawful

Used to describe something that is permitted by law. It is often used in formal and legal contexts.

  • The company claimed their actions were lawful.
  • It is lawful to carry a certain amount of cash.
legitimate

Describes something that is valid or acceptable according to the law or common standards. It can also have meanings in non-legal contexts, like social or moral acceptance.

  • He has a legitimate claim to the property.
  • Their concerns are legitimate and should be addressed.

Examples of usage

  • constitutional rights
  • constitutional law is the highest law of the land
Context #2 | Adjective

health

affecting the structure of the body

Synonyms

organic, structural.

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Word Description / Examples
constitutional

In a health and wellness context, 'constitutional' refers to something related to the physical or mental state of being, often implying something routine or habitual for maintaining good health.

  • She takes a brisk walk every morning for her constitutional.
  • A good diet is necessary for a strong constitutional health.
structural

This word is used in architecture, engineering, and organizational contexts to refer to something related to the structure or framework of a building, system, or organization.

  • The bridge has some structural weaknesses that need to be addressed.
  • They made structural changes to improve the company's workflow.
organic

Used in the context of food and agriculture to describe products grown without synthetic pesticides or artificial fertilizers. It can also mean something that occurs naturally or is derived from living matter in various scientific contexts.

  • She only buys organic vegetables.
  • Organic compounds are essential for life processes.

Examples of usage

  • constitutional disease
  • constitutional symptoms
Context #3 | Adjective

biology

inherent in the makeup of an organism

Synonyms

innate, intrinsic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
constitutional

Referring to a routine walk or exercise done for health purposes.

  • Every morning he takes a constitutional in the park.
  • A daily constitutional is part of her wellness regimen.
intrinsic

Describing qualities or values that are inherent and fundamental to something's nature, often used in more abstract or philosophical discussions.

  • The intrinsic value of artwork goes beyond its monetary cost.
  • She believes in the intrinsic goodness of all people.
innate

Describing qualities, abilities, or characteristics that a person is born with; inherent.

  • She has an innate ability to understand people's emotions.
  • His leadership qualities seem to be innate.

Examples of usage

  • constitutional characteristics
  • constitutional differences

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'constitutio', meaning 'to set up or establish'.
  • It first appeared in English in the late 14th century, connecting to the idea of setting up a structure or system.
  • Over time, its meaning expanded to include not just arrangements but also the foundational laws of a state.

Historical Context

  • The constitutional concept gained prominence during the Enlightenment when philosophers advocated for government by consent.
  • The United States Constitution, adopted in 1787, was one of the first written constitutions and inspired many others worldwide.
  • Many countries' constitutions emerged after wars or revolutions when people sought to create new governing frameworks.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'constitutional crisis' is often referenced in television shows and movies, highlighting political instability.
  • 'Constitutional' has been used in music titles and lyrics, signifying the blending of law and personal freedoms.
  • Various documentaries explore the impact of constitutions on civil rights and liberties, emphasizing their role in societal narratives.

Law and Politics

  • In many democracies, a constitutional amendment requires a specific process, often ensuring that changes reflect societal values.
  • Countries may have different types of constitutions, such as written, unwritten, or hybrid forms, reflecting their unique legal traditions.
  • Constitutions often serve to protect essential rights for individuals, such as freedom of speech and the right to assemble.

Education

  • Constitutional education is often included in social studies curricula to help students understand government functions.
  • Beyond law classes, the principles of 'constitutional law' influence subjects like history, politics, and ethics in education settings.
  • Mock trials and debates on constitutional issues are popular activities in schools, helping students engage with civic concepts.

Translations

Translations of the word "constitutional" in other languages:

🇵🇹 constitucional

🇮🇳 संवैधानिक

🇩🇪 verfassungsmäßig

🇮🇩 konstitusional

🇺🇦 конституційний

🇵🇱 konstytucyjny

🇯🇵 憲法の

🇫🇷 constitutionnel

🇪🇸 constitucional

🇹🇷 anayasal

🇰🇷 헌법의

🇸🇦 دستوري

🇨🇿 ústavní

🇸🇰 ústavný

🇨🇳 宪法的

🇸🇮 ustaven

🇮🇸 stjórnarskrárbundinn

🇰🇿 конституциялық

🇬🇪 კონსტიტუციური

🇦🇿 konstitusiya

🇲🇽 constitucional

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,306, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.