Legal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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legal
[ˈliːɡ(ə)l ]
Definitions
system
Permitted by law; lawful. Relating to the law or to lawyers
Synonyms
authorized, lawful, legitimate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| legal |
Used to describe something that is permitted by law, often in a more formal or technical context. It can also refer to anything related to law or legal professions.
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| lawful |
Emphasizes strict adherence to established laws and is often used in formal or legal documents to highlight that something is not against the law.
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| legitimate |
Often used to describe something that is not only lawful but also generally accepted as fair or proper. It can have a broader context beyond strict legality, like in societal or ethical terms.
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| authorized |
Refers to something that has been formally approved or permitted by a recognized authority, individual, or organization.
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Examples of usage
- The company has taken legal advice
- It is perfectly legal to own a gun in this country
system
A person who is studying or practising law; a lawyer
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| legal |
Used to describe anything related to the law or legal systems. It is an adjective, often applied to documents, processes, or principles.
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| lawyer |
A general term for someone who practices law. This word is more commonly used in everyday language and is less formal compared to 'attorney'.
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| attorney |
Commonly used in the United States to refer to a person who is legally qualified to prosecute and defend actions in court. It often implies a professional and formal role.
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| counsel |
Formal term often used in legal contexts to refer to the act of providing advice or the advisors themselves. It can be used both as a noun and a verb.
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Examples of usage
- She's a legal professional
- The legal will be representing the defendant in court
documents
The legal department of a company or organization
Synonyms
legal counsel, legal department, legal team.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| legal |
Used to describe something related to the law or conforms to the law. General term that can be applied in various situations involving rules or laws.
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| legal department |
Used to describe a specific division within a company or organization that handles legal issues and ensures compliance with the law. Mostly used in corporate or organizational contexts.
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| legal team |
Refers to a group of lawyers and legal professionals who work together on legal cases or issues. Typically used in contexts involving organizations, businesses, or large legal cases.
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| legal counsel |
Refers to an attorney or lawyer who provides advice or representation in legal matters. Used in more formal or professional contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The legal is reviewing the contract
- You need to get approval from the legal before proceeding
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Ancient civilizations, like the Romans, laid down legal codes which were essential for social order.
- The Magna Carta of 1215 is a significant historical document that established certain legal rights and limited the powers of the king.
- The development of common law in England shaped many modern legal systems around the world.
Pop Culture
- Movies often portray lawyers in dramatic courtroom battles, such as in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' or 'A Few Good Men'.
- Legal dramas on television, like 'Law & Order', have made the legal process familiar to many viewers.
- The concept of legal systems is frequently discussed in music, such as in 'I Shot the Sheriff' by Bob Marley.
Science
- In psychology, understanding 'legal' aspects often intersects with ethics, such as in forensics.
- Legal scholars study the implications of new technologies and their regulations, vital for innovative fields like biotech and AI.
- The intersection of law and science can be seen in environmental laws that protect ecosystems.
Literature
- Classic literature often explores themes of justice and law, exemplified in works like 'Crime and Punishment' by Dostoevsky.
- Legal terms often appear in poetry, such as in the works of Walt Whitman, where he reflects on freedom and justice.
- Modern novels frequently feature protagonists entangled in legal issues, illuminating societal conflicts.
Origin of 'legal'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'legalis', meaning 'of the law'.
- In Middle English, it was spelled as 'leegal', showing its evolution over time.
- The term started being used in English around the late 14th century.
The word 'legal' originated from the Latin word 'legalis', which means 'related to the law'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. The concept of legality and the need for legal systems have been present throughout human history, with early civilizations developing rules and regulations to govern behavior. The modern legal system has evolved to ensure justice, protection of rights, and maintenance of order in society.
See also: leg, legacy, legatee, legation, legend, legible, legs.