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Legal: meaning, definitions and examples

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legal

 

[ˈliːɡ(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

system

Permitted by law; lawful. Relating to the law or to lawyers

Synonyms

authorized, lawful, legitimate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • It's legal to cross the street at the designated crosswalk.
  • She is studying to become a legal expert.
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.

  • The operation was conducted in a lawful manner.
  • Citizens have the right to lawful assembly.
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.

  • He is the legitimate heir to the throne.
  • Their concerns were legitimate and needed to be addressed.
authorized

Refers to something that has been formally approved or permitted by a recognized authority, individual, or organization.

  • Only authorized personnel are allowed to enter this area.
  • She was authorized by the board to make public statements on behalf of the company.

Examples of usage

  • The company has taken legal advice
  • It is perfectly legal to own a gun in this country
Context #2 | Noun

system

A person who is studying or practising law; a lawyer

Synonyms

attorney, counsel, lawyer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • He is facing legal issues
  • Make sure all the paperwork is in legal order
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'.

  • He became a lawyer to help people with their legal problems
  • The lawyer explained the legal implications of the case
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.

  • She hired an attorney to represent her in court
  • The attorney reviewed the contract thoroughly
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.

  • She sought legal counsel before making her decision
  • The counsel advised their client on the best course of action

Examples of usage

  • She's a legal professional
  • The legal will be representing the defendant in court
Context #3 | Noun

documents

The legal department of a company or organization

Synonyms

legal counsel, legal department, legal team.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • The contract is legally binding.
  • She is studying legal studies at university.
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.

  • All employment contracts are reviewed by the legal department.
  • The legal department is responsible for handling litigation cases.
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.

  • The company's legal team worked tirelessly to win the case.
  • He is part of the legal team representing the defendant.
legal counsel

Refers to an attorney or lawyer who provides advice or representation in legal matters. Used in more formal or professional contexts.

  • She sought legal counsel to help with her divorce proceedings.
  • The company consulted their legal counsel before making the decision.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At #674 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.