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Lawfulness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lawfulness

[ˈlɔːfʊlnəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal system

The quality of being in accordance with the law; legality.

Synonyms

legality, legitimacy, validity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lawfulness

Used when discussing whether actions or behaviors align with the law.

  • The lawfulness of the new policy is being questioned by several advocacy groups.
  • We need to ensure the lawfulness of our actions to avoid legal issues.
legality

Used when assessing if something complies with the legal system and laws in place.

  • The legality of the contract was challenged in court.
  • They are still debating the legality of the new regulation.
legitimacy

Used to describe something that is legally recognized and accepted, often connected with authority or power.

  • The government questioned the legitimacy of the rebel group's claims.
  • His legitimacy as a leader is essential for maintaining order.
validity

Used to discuss whether something is legally sound or effective, often refers to documents, arguments, or claims.

  • The validity of the marriage certificate is in doubt.
  • Her argument was questioned for its logical validity.

Examples of usage

  • The lawfulness of the action was questioned in court.
  • The lawfulness of the contract was under scrutiny.
Context #2 | Noun

morality

Conformity to moral principles or ethical standards.

Synonyms

rectitude, righteousness, virtue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
lawfulness

It fits when discussing adherence to laws and regulations. It's neutral and formal, often used in legal or official settings.

  • The company ensured the lawfulness of its operations.
  • Her actions were praised for their lawfulness.
righteousness

This term is commonly used in moral or religious contexts to describe just, virtuous behavior. It is positive and can carry a bit of a solemn tone.

  • Her righteousness was evident in all her dealings.
  • They fought for what they believed was righteousness.
virtue

Virtue is ideal for broader contexts discussing moral excellence or commendable traits. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • Patience is considered a great virtue.
  • She was known for her virtue and kindness.
rectitude

Best used when describing moral correctness or uprightness. It carries a positive and somewhat formal tone.

  • He was admired for his rectitude and honesty.
  • Her rectitude made her a trusted leader.

Examples of usage

  • The lawfulness of his conduct was praised by the community.
  • She always acted with great lawfulness in her dealings.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • In ancient civilizations, lawfulness was enforced through codified laws, such as Hammurabi’s Code in Mesopotamia, which is one of the oldest deciphered writings.
  • Roman law laid the foundation for many modern legal systems, intertwining lawfulness with citizenship and civic duty.
  • The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, emphasized that everyone, even the king, was subject to the law, reinforcing the concept of lawfulness in governance.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like John Locke argued that lawfulness is essential for the protection of natural rights and social order.
  • The concept of the 'social contract' revolves around the idea that individuals consent to obey laws in exchange for protection and order in society.
  • Immanuel Kant emphasized the importance of moral law, suggesting that true lawfulness involves acting according to universal principles.

Psychology

  • Understanding lawfulness in behavior can relate to theories of social conformity, where individuals align their actions with societal rules.
  • The perception of fairness in laws contributes to the psychological concept of ‘justice,’ influencing public trust in legal systems.
  • Research shows that communities with higher perceived lawfulness often experience better mental health outcomes among their members.

Cultural Significance

  • Lawfulness varies widely across cultures, with some societies prioritizing communal laws over individual rights.
  • In many indigenous cultures, customary laws emphasize harmony with nature and the community over written statutes.
  • Literary works, from Shakespeare’s plays to modern novels, often explore themes of lawfulness and righteousness, reflecting societal values.

Origin of 'lawfulness'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Old English word 'lagu,' meaning 'law' or 'statute'.
  • The suffix '-ness' indicates a state or condition, turning 'lawful' into a noun describing that state.
  • The root 'law' has connections to various Germanic languages, emphasizing its historical significance across cultures.

The word 'lawfulness' originated from the Middle English word 'lawefulnesse', which was derived from the Old English word 'lagufull' meaning 'full of legal rights'. The concept of lawfulness has been a fundamental aspect of human societies throughout history, with the rule of law serving as a cornerstone of civilization. In modern legal and ethical discourse, the term 'lawfulness' continues to play a crucial role in defining the boundaries of acceptable behavior and ensuring justice and order in society.

See also: law, lawbook, lawbreaker, lawbreaking, lawful, lawfully, lawgiver, lawless, lawlessness, lawmaker, lawmakers, lawmaking, lawman, laws, lawsuit, lawyer, lawyers, outlaw, unlawful, unlawfully.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,004, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.