Illegal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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illegal
[ɪˈliːɡ(ə)l ]
Definitions
activities
Contrary to or forbidden by law, especially criminal law.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| illegal |
This word is typically used for actions or items that are against the law. It is often used in a legal or law enforcement context.
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| unlawful |
This term is often used in legal contexts to describe actions that are not permitted by law. It is somewhat formal and can be used interchangeably with 'illegal' in many situations.
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| illicit |
This word is often used to describe activities or goods that are forbidden by law, but it can also imply a sense of secrecy or immorality.
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| criminal |
Used to describe activities, behaviors, or people that involve crime. This word often carries a negative connotation, indicating serious wrongdoing.
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Examples of usage
- His actions were illegal and could result in severe consequences.
- She was arrested for her illegal activities.
- The company was fined for illegal business practices.
immigration
A person who has entered a country in violation of the law.
Synonyms
illegal alien, undocumented immigrant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| illegal |
This word is often used to describe actions or things that are against the law. It carries a neutral to negative connotation, depending on context.
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| undocumented immigrant |
This term is more modern and preferred as it is less negative. It refers to someone who is residing in a country without the necessary legal documentation. It is used in a variety of formal and informal contexts, especially in discussions about immigration policy.
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| illegal alien |
This term is used to refer to a foreign person who is living in a country without official authorization. It is widely considered outdated and offensive due to its negative connotation and the term 'alien.'
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Examples of usage
- The border patrol caught several illegals trying to cross the border.
- The government is cracking down on illegals living in the country.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Framework
- In most countries, laws define what actions are illegal, ranging from minor infractions to serious crimes.
- The concept of legality can vary widely between different cultures and legal systems, highlighting the importance of context.
- Not everything that is illegal is morally wrong; some laws may seem outdated or unjust over time.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict illegal activities such as heists or drug trading, captivating audiences with the thrill of rebellion.
- In literature, many characters find themselves on the wrong side of the law, leading to moral and ethical dilemmas.
- Songs and art sometimes romanticize illegal actions, reflecting society’s complex relationship with rules and rebellion.
Psychology
- People sometimes engage in illegal behaviors due to peer pressure or the thrill of breaking the rules.
- The psychological concept of 'reactance' explains why some individuals may purposely defy laws if they feel their freedom is restricted.
- Understanding what drives illegal behavior can help in creating better laws and rehabilitation programs.
History
- Throughout history, many laws deemed 'illegal' have been challenged, leading to significant social movements and reforms.
- Prohibition in the 1920s in the U.S. made alcohol illegal, which led to a rise in organized crime and eventually repealed the law.
- Certain acts that were illegal in the past, like interracial marriage or same-sex relationships, have become legal due to changes in societal values.
Origin of 'illegal'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'illegalis', where 'il-' means 'not' and 'legalis' means 'legal' or 'lawful'.
- This term has been in English since the late 14th century, showing that the concept of legality has long been important.
- It is a combination of a prefix meaning 'not' and a root that relates to law, emphasizing its contradictory nature.
The word 'illegal' originated from the Latin word 'illegalis', which means 'not according to law'. The term has been used for centuries to describe actions or individuals that violate laws. In modern times, the term is commonly used in legal contexts to refer to activities or people that are contrary to the law of a particular jurisdiction.
See also: illegally, legalist, legalistic, legality, legally.