Illegally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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illegally
[ɪˈliːɡ(ə)li ]
Definitions
committing an offense
In a manner that is against the law or rules.
Synonyms
illicitly, unethically, unlawfully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| illegally |
Used to describe an action that is against the law or violates legal statutes.
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| unlawfully |
Used interchangeably with 'illegally', focusing more on the violation of the law.
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| illicitly |
Implies not only an illegal action, but often also one done secretly and involving moral issues.
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| unethically |
Describes actions that go against moral principles or accepted professional standards, but may not necessarily be illegal.
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Examples of usage
- He was driving illegally without a valid license.
- She entered the building illegally through a back door.
without proper permission
In a way that is not permitted or authorized.
Synonyms
improperly, unlawfully, unofficially.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| illegally |
Used to describe actions that break the law. It's often used in formal or legal contexts.
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| unofficially |
Relates to actions done without official approval or outside sanctioned procedures. Doesn't necessarily imply legality issues.
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| improperly |
Used when something is done in an incorrect or inappropriate manner, not necessarily breaking the law.
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| unlawfully |
Similar to 'illegally,' but often used in a more formal or legal setting. It emphasizes the violation of the law.
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Examples of usage
- He accessed the confidential files illegally.
- She obtained the information illegally from a source.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Social Context
- Certain actions deemed illegal can vary widely between different cultures and countries, showcasing diverse legal systems.
- In many societies, illegal actions are often a result of social inequality or lack of access to resources.
- The perception of what is illegal sometimes shifts with changes in public opinion, as seen in debates over drug laws.
Criminal Justice
- Acts categorized as illegal can lead to criminal charges, which may range from misdemeanors to felonies.
- The enforcement of laws against illegal activities plays a significant role in maintaining social order.
- Judicial systems provide various consequences for illegal actions, which can include fines, imprisonment, or community service.
Pop Culture
- Movies often depict illegal activities, such as heists or drug trafficking, exploring moral dilemmas and societal issues.
- Songs and literature frequently reference illegal themes, using them as metaphors for rebellion or personal struggles.
- Famous historical figures sometimes engaged in illegal acts as forms of protest, challenging unjust laws.
Technology
- With the rise of the internet, new forms of illegal activities, like piracy and hacking, have emerged, raising ethical debates.
- Digital content often faces battles over legality, especially with copyright laws adapting to new technology.
- Cybersecurity laws are continually evolving to combat illegal online behaviors, reflecting technological advancements.
Origin of 'illegally'
Main points about word origin
- This term stems from the Latin word 'illegalis', meaning 'not according to the law'.
- The prefix 'il-' means 'not', indicating that the action is against rules.
- The word began to be used in English around the early 17th century, reflecting the growing complexity of laws.
The word 'illegally' is derived from the base word 'illegal,' which comes from the Latin word 'illegalis,' meaning 'not according to law.' The adverb form 'illegally' has been used in the English language to describe actions that are contrary to the law or rules.
See also: illegal, legalist, legalistic, legality, legally.