Illicitly: meaning, definitions and examples
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illicitly
[ɪˈlɪsɪtli ]
Definitions
used in a sentence
In a way that is not allowed by law or rules; illegally.
Synonyms
illegally, improperly, unlawfully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| illicitly |
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.
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| illegally |
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.
|
| unlawfully |
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.
|
| improperly |
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.
|
Examples of usage
- He obtained the information illicitly by hacking into the company's database.
- The drugs were smuggled illicitly across the border.
formal definition
In a manner disapproved or not sanctioned by custom or law.
Synonyms
dishonestly, improperly, unethically.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| illicitly |
Best used when describing actions that are illegal or forbidden by law or rules.
|
| improperly |
Appropriate for describing actions that are not suitable, incorrect, or violate norms and standards, but not necessarily illegal.
|
| unethically |
Used to describe actions that are morally wrong, even if not illegal. This often applies to professional behavior.
|
| dishonestly |
Used to describe actions that involve lying, cheating, or stealing with the intent to deceive someone.
|
Examples of usage
- She acquired the painting illicitly, without the consent of the true owner.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'illicitus', which means 'unlawful'.
- It combines the prefix 'il-', meaning 'not', with 'licitus', meaning 'permitted'.
- The use of the word dates back to the late Middle Ages in English.
Law
- Activities that happen illicitly often involve legal consequences, like fines or imprisonment.
- Illicit activities can range from drug trafficking to white-collar crimes like embezzlement.
- The term is often used in discussions around organized crime and corruption.
Cultural Perception
- Culturally, illicit behaviors can be glamorized in media, leading to a complex debate about morality.
- Certain subcultures may view illicit activities as a form of rebellion against societal norms.
- Films and books often explore themes of illicit love, where societal rules are challenged.
Psychology
- Engaging in illicit behavior may create a rush of adrenaline, often termed 'risk-taking behavior'.
- The thrill of doing something illicit can lead to a cycle of repeated risk-taking among individuals.
- Understanding why people engage in such behaviors can help in prevention strategies in youth.
Pop Culture
- Songs and movies often depict characters who engage in illicit activities, drawing audiences with themes of danger.
- The notion of 'illicit affairs' is a common trope in romantic novels and films.
- Illicit substances, like certain drugs, are frequently referenced in music genres such as rap and rock.
Translations
Translations of the word "illicitly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ilicitamente
🇮🇳 ग़ैरक़ानूनी ढंग से
🇩🇪 illegalerweise
🇮🇩 secara ilegal
🇺🇦 незаконно
🇵🇱 nielegalnie
🇯🇵 不法に (ふほうに)
🇫🇷 illégalement
🇪🇸 ilícitamente
🇹🇷 yasadışı olarak
🇰🇷 불법적으로
🇸🇦 بشكل غير قانوني
🇨🇿 nelegálně
🇸🇰 nelegálne
🇨🇳 非法地
🇸🇮 nezakonito
🇮🇸 ólöglega
🇰🇿 заңсыз
🇬🇪 უკანონოდ
🇦🇿 qanunsuz olaraq
🇲🇽 ilícitamente