Illicitly: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to activities that are not permitted by law and often secretive or hidden due to their illegality. It suggests a sense of forbidden or unethical behavior.

• He obtained the documents illicitly.
• They were caught in an illicitly organized gambling ring.

Used in a legal context to describe actions that are against the law or legal regulations. It is a straightforward term without emotional or moral connotations.

• He was arrested for illegally downloading music.
• The company was fined for illegally disposing of hazardous waste.

Used to emphasize that an action is explicitly against the law. This term is often seen in legal or formal contexts and indicates a breach of legal statutes.

• The protestors were unlawfully detained by the authorities.
• He was charged with unlawfully possessing a firearm.

Used to describe actions that are not in accordance with accepted rules, standards, or procedures. It does not necessarily carry a legal implication and can be used for errors or breaches of protocol.

• The machine was improperly installed, leading to frequent malfunctions.
• She was criticized for handling the situation improperly.

Best used when describing actions that are illegal or forbidden by law or rules.

• He was caught illicitly trading endangered wildlife.
• The documents were obtained illicitly.

Appropriate for describing actions that are not suitable, incorrect, or violate norms and standards, but not necessarily illegal.

• He was improperly dressed for the formal event.
• The report was filled out improperly and had to be redone.

Used to describe actions that are morally wrong, even if not illegal. This often applies to professional behavior.

• The doctor acted unethically by manipulating test results.
• It is unethically to take credit for someone else's work.

Used to describe actions that involve lying, cheating, or stealing with the intent to deceive someone.

• She acted dishonestly when she lied about her qualifications.
• He obtained the promotion dishonestly.