Delegalize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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delegalize
[dēˈliɡəˌlīz ]
Definition
legal context
To delegalize something means to remove its legal status, making it no longer permissible or authorized by law. This can refer to activities, substances, or practices that were previously allowed. Delegalization often occurs in response to changes in societal norms or government policies.
Synonyms
ban, forbid, outlaw, prohibit.
Examples of usage
- The government decided to delegalize certain drugs.
- The city council voted to delegalize street performances.
- Activists are campaigning to delegalize harmful practices.
- Changes in public opinion can lead to the delegalization of controversial activities.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal History
- The Prohibition era (1920-1933) in the United States was a significant moment when laws were enforced to delegalize alcohol production and sales.
- In many countries, substances like cannabis have transitioned between legalization and delegalization phases based on political and social changes.
- Delegalization can often be a reaction to issues like public health concerns, societal pressures, and changes in government.
Cultural Perspectives
- The debate over delegalizing certain activities often reflects broader societal values, such as health, morality, and safety.
- In some cultures, actions considered normal can become delegalized based on shifts in governance, impacting social behaviors and norms.
- Artists and activists have historically used delegalization as a focal point to highlight injustice and advocate for reform.
Psychological Impact
- The delegalization of certain activities can lead to increased stigma and fear among those previously participating in them.
- Research indicates that when something is delegalized, individuals may feel marginalized or further pushed into underground networks.
- The feeling of losing legal rights over behaviors can cause anxiety and frustration within communities affected by such changes.
Modern Usage
- In contemporary discourse, discussions about delegalizing practices often arise in the context of digital rights and internet freedom.
- Social media campaigns have emerged to challenge the delegalization of various rights, illustrating the power of grassroots activism.
- Debates about delegalization frequently intersect with issues of public health, especially regarding substances like tobacco and recreational drugs.
Origin of 'delegalize'
Main points about word origin
- The word is formed by the prefix 'de-', meaning to reverse or remove, combined with 'legalize', which comes from 'legal', meaning relating to the law.
- Legal systems worldwide use various terms for prohibition, with 'delegalize' reflecting a specific action to revert legality.
- Emergence of the term has been linked to shifting social attitudes and laws concerning substances, practices, or behaviors.
The term 'delegalize' is derived from the prefix 'de-', meaning to remove or reverse, and the word 'legalize', which itself comes from 'legal', referring to what is authorized by law. The concept of legalizing or delegalizing specific activities can be traced back to various legal systems throughout history, reflecting changing societal values and norms. The word gained prominence in legal and political discourse in the late 20th century as debates around drug policy, civil rights, and regulatory practices intensified. As societies evolve, the processes of legal reformation often necessitate the need to delegalize practices that are deemed harmful or outdated. This reflects a dynamic interplay between law, ethics, and public opinion.