Illegally: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe an action that is against the law or violates legal statutes.

• He was caught driving illegally without a license.
• The company was fined for operating illegally.

Used interchangeably with 'illegally', focusing more on the violation of the law.

• He was taken into custody for unlawfully entering the building.
• She was accused of unlawfully appropriating company funds.

Implies not only an illegal action, but often also one done secretly and involving moral issues.

• She was involved in illicitly trading confidential information.
• The gang was involved in illicitly selling narcotics.

Describes actions that go against moral principles or accepted professional standards, but may not necessarily be illegal.

• The lawyer was disbarred for behaving unethically.
• Using customer data without consent is considered unethically.

Used to describe actions that break the law. It's often used in formal or legal contexts.

• He was caught illegally downloading movies.
• Illegally parked cars will be towed away.

Relates to actions done without official approval or outside sanctioned procedures. Doesn't necessarily imply legality issues.

• They met unofficially to discuss the new project.
• He is acting unofficially as the team leader until one is appointed.

Used when something is done in an incorrect or inappropriate manner, not necessarily breaking the law.

• The machine was improperly assembled, causing it to malfunction.
• She was criticized for improperly handling the situation.

Similar to 'illegally,' but often used in a more formal or legal setting. It emphasizes the violation of the law.

• The company was found to be unlawfully discriminating against employees.
• He was charged with unlawfully entering the building.