Lawless: meaning, definitions and examples

Describes a situation or place where laws are not followed or enforced, often implying complete disorder and lack of governance.

• The Wild West was often depicted as a lawless region.
• The lawless nature of the city made it dangerous to walk the streets at night.

Similar to 'illegal,' but often used in more formal or legalistic contexts. It suggests that an action or behavior is not permitted by law.

• The court deemed the contract to be unlawful.
• He was fined for unlawful assembly.

Indicates that something is against the law, often used in legal or formal contexts to describe actions, behaviors, or items that are not permitted by law.

• It's illegal to park here without a permit.
• The company faced fines for illegal activities.

Refers to something or someone related to crimes or involved in illegal activities, often carrying a negative connotation.

• The police captured a notorious criminal.
• There was a criminal element in the organization that needed to be eradicated.

Referring to a state of society without government or law, often suggesting a high level of chaos and disorder.

• After the government collapsed, the country descended into an anarchic state.
• The protest quickly turned anarchic, with no one in control.

Describes a state of complete confusion and lack of order, not specifically related to the absence of laws.

• The airport was chaotic during the holiday rush.
• Her thoughts were chaotic, making it hard to concentrate.

Best used to describe a situation, area, or behavior that completely lacks legal governance or order.

• The remote town became lawless after the police station was abandoned.
• The pirates operated in lawless waters, far from any jurisdiction.

Typically used in a legal or economic context to describe activities or markets that lack formal rules or oversight.

• The unregulated market led to widespread exploitation of workers.
• Cryptocurrency trading remains largely unregulated in many countries.

Usually describes people, especially groups, who are difficult to manage or control, often behaving in a disruptive manner.

• The teacher struggled to manage the unruly classroom.
• Unruly fans caused chaos in the stadium.

Appropriate for describing chaotic or disorganized behavior or situations, especially when referring to public disturbances.

• The protest turned disorderly when they started pushing against the police barriers.
• His disorderly conduct at the party got him kicked out.

Refers to something that is not being restrained or regulated, can relate to physical actions or emotions.

• The forest fire spread in an uncontrolled manner.
• His uncontrolled temper got him into trouble.

Used to describe actions taken without considering the consequences or dangers, often leading to harm or adverse effects.

• Her reckless driving nearly caused an accident.
• He made a reckless investment and lost all his money.