Illegally: meaning, definitions and examples
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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.
|
| illicitly |
Implies not only an illegal action, but often also one done secretly and involving moral issues.
|
| unethically |
Describes actions that go against moral principles or accepted professional standards, but may not necessarily be illegal.
|
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.
|
| unofficially |
Relates to actions done without official approval or outside sanctioned procedures. Doesn't necessarily imply legality issues.
|
| improperly |
Used when something is done in an incorrect or inappropriate manner, not necessarily breaking the law.
|
| unlawfully |
Similar to 'illegally,' but often used in a more formal or legal setting. It emphasizes the violation of the law.
|
Examples of usage
- He accessed the confidential files illegally.
- She obtained the information illegally from a source.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "illegally" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ilegalmente
🇮🇳 गैरकानूनी रूप से
🇩🇪 illegal
🇮🇩 secara ilegal
🇺🇦 незаконно
🇵🇱 nielegalnie
🇯🇵 違法に
🇫🇷 illégalement
🇪🇸 ilegalmente
🇹🇷 yasadışı olarak
🇰🇷 불법적으로
🇸🇦 بشكل غير قانوني
🇨🇿 nelegálně
🇸🇰 nelegálne
🇨🇳 非法地
🇸🇮 nezakonito
🇮🇸 ólöglega
🇰🇿 заңсыз
🇬🇪 უკანონოდ
🇦🇿 qanunsuz olaraq
🇲🇽 ilegalmente