Legal: meaning, definitions and examples
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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 |
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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 |
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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
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "legal" in other languages:
🇵🇹 legal
🇮🇳 कानूनी
🇩🇪 legal
🇮🇩 hukum
🇺🇦 законний
🇵🇱 legalny
🇯🇵 合法的 (ごうほうてき)
🇫🇷 légal
🇪🇸 legal
🇹🇷 yasal
🇰🇷 합법적인
🇸🇦 قانوني
🇨🇿 legální
🇸🇰 legálny
🇨🇳 合法的 (héfǎ de)
🇸🇮 zakonit
🇮🇸 löglegt
🇰🇿 заңды
🇬🇪 კანონიერი
🇦🇿 qanuni
🇲🇽 legal