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Legality: meaning, definitions and examples

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legality

 

[ lɪˈɡæləti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in politics

The state or quality of being in accordance with the law. Legality is essential for a functioning society, as it provides a framework for order and justice.

Synonyms

lawfulness, legitimacy, validity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legality

Used to refer to the strict adherence to laws, rules, and regulations. It often has a formal tone and is applied in legal and administrative contexts.

  • The legality of the new policy was questioned by the opposition.
  • He consulted a lawyer to understand the legality of his actions.
lawfulness

Typically used to describe actions or behaviors that are in accordance with the law. This word is often employed in discussions about compliance and ethics.

  • The lawfulness of the company's practices was under scrutiny.
  • They were confident in the lawfulness of their decision.
validity

Refers to the soundness or cogency of an argument, contract, or principle, based on legal, factual, or logical grounds. This term is frequently used in academic, legal, and scientific discussions.

  • The validity of the research findings was confirmed by peer review.
  • She challenged the validity of the contract in court.
legitimacy

Often used to describe the authenticity or acceptance of something, based on laws or social norms. This term is commonly applied in political, social, and ethical discussions.

  • The legitimacy of the government was called into question.
  • Many doubted the legitimacy of the election results.

Examples of usage

  • Without legality, chaos would reign in society.
  • Respect for legality is a cornerstone of democracy.
Context #2 | Noun

in sports

The quality or condition of conforming to the rules of a sport or game. Legality is crucial in sports competitions to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the game.

Synonyms

compliance, fairness, legitimacy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legality

Used when referring to whether something is in accordance with the law.

  • The legality of the contract was questioned by the lawyer
  • The company's actions were within the bounds of legality
fairness

Used when discussing impartiality, justice, and equitable treatment, often in everyday or ethical contexts.

  • The fairness of the decision was questioned by many employees
  • Treating everyone with fairness is crucial in maintaining a positive work environment
compliance

Used when referring to adherence to rules, regulations, or standards, often in a corporate or organizational context.

  • The company must ensure compliance with safety regulations
  • The compliance officer reviewed all procedures to ensure they met the required standards
legitimacy

Used when referring to the acceptance and recognition of something as valid or proper, often in a political or social context.

  • The legitimacy of the new government was recognized by the international community
  • There were concerns about the legitimacy of the election results

Examples of usage

  • The referee checked the legality of the player's equipment before the match.
  • Any violation of legality will result in disqualification.
Context #3 | Noun

general

The state of being in accordance with established rules, principles, or standards. Legality is a fundamental concept in various aspects of life, from business practices to personal conduct.

Synonyms

lawfulness, legitimacy, validity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legality

Used when referring to the adherence of actions or situations to the law.

  • The legality of the new policy is being questioned.
  • There are doubts about the legality of his business practices.
legitimacy

Typically refers to the rightful status or acceptance of an authority, institution, or action, often in a political or social context.

  • The legitimacy of the new government was recognized internationally.
  • There are questions about the legitimacy of the election results.
lawfulness

Often used in discussions about behavior or actions being in accordance with the law. This term is closely related to moral or ethical considerations.

  • The lawfulness of such an act is under debate.
  • They ensured the lawfulness of their operations.
validity

Used to describe the soundness or strength of an argument, contract, or legal document. It doesn’t only pertain to law but also to logic and reasoning.

  • The validity of the contract is being challenged in court.
  • She questioned the validity of his argument.

Examples of usage

  • The legality of the contract was questioned due to ambiguous terms.
  • Ethical considerations often go hand in hand with legality.

Translations

Translations of the word "legality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 legalidade

🇮🇳 कानूनीता

🇩🇪 Legalität

🇮🇩 legalitas

🇺🇦 законність

🇵🇱 legalność

🇯🇵 合法性 (ごうほうせい)

🇫🇷 légalité

🇪🇸 legalidad

🇹🇷 yasallık

🇰🇷 합법성 (habbeopseong)

🇸🇦 شرعية (shar'ia)

🇨🇿 legalita

🇸🇰 legalita

🇨🇳 合法性 (héhé xìng)

🇸🇮 zakonitost

🇮🇸 lögmæti

🇰🇿 заңдылық

🇬🇪 კანონიერება (kanoniereba)

🇦🇿 qanunilik

🇲🇽 legalidad

Etymology

The word 'legality' originated from the Latin word 'legalis,' meaning lawful. It has been used in English since the early 16th century to refer to the quality or state of being legal or in accordance with the law. The concept of legality has evolved over time to encompass various contexts, from political governance to sports regulations.

See also: illegal, illegally, legalist, legalistic, legally.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,960, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.