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Legalize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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legalize

[ˈliːɡəlaɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

law and politics

To legalize something means to make it legal or legitimate according to the law. This process often involves changes in legislation or regulations to allow for an activity that was previously prohibited. Legalizing an activity can also include the establishment of terms and conditions under which it can be practiced. The process reflects shifts in societal values or norms regarding specific behaviors or substances.

Synonyms

allow, authorize, permit, validate.

Examples of usage

  • The state plans to legalize recreational marijuana.
  • Activists are working to legalize same-sex marriage.
  • Many countries are considering whether to legalize certain drugs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Politics

  • Countries are often divided on the issue, with some seeing legalization as a public health strategy and others as a moral concern.
  • Legalization movements often involve advocacy groups seeking to change public perception and laws surrounding specific substances.
  • The debate surrounding legalization can shift quickly, impacting elections and public policy choices.

Social Science

  • Studies show that legalizing certain activities, like cannabis use, can lead to decreased crime rates in some areas.
  • Legalization can have profound social effects, including changes in community dynamics and public safety perceptions.
  • The impact of legalization often varies by demographic, influencing different groups in unique ways.

Global Perspectives

  • In the last decade, many countries such as Canada and Uruguay have legalized cannabis for recreational use, setting global precedents.
  • Different nations approach legalization uniquely, influenced by cultural, historical, and political factors.
  • In the United States, various states have taken different paths regarding legalization, highlighting a patchwork of laws across the country.

Economics

  • Legalizing activities often introduces regulations that can generate substantial tax revenue for governments.
  • The legal market allows for safer product regulation and consumer protections that were absent in illegal markets.
  • Economic studies suggest legalization may reduce law enforcement costs by decreasing the need for policing certain behaviors.

Origin of 'legalize'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'legal,' which has Latin roots in 'legalis,' meaning 'pertaining to the law.'
  • The addition of '-ize' is used in English to indicate that something is being made into a certain state or condition.
  • The term started to gain popularity in the 20th century, especially regarding discussions about drug policy.

The term 'legalize' originates from the mid-19th century, derived from the French word 'légaliser,' which means to make legal. It combines the prefix 'legal,' relating to the law, and the suffix '-ize,' indicating the process of making or becoming. This process first emerged in discussions surrounding various social movements and legal reforms, especially pertaining to personal freedoms and regulatory frameworks. The broader use of 'legalize' has evolved to encompass a wide range of activities, from recreational substance use to the recognition of rights and privileges under the law. Over time, as societal norms have evolved, the debate over what should or should not be legalized has led to significant legal reforms in many countries, reflecting changing attitudes towards governance and personal autonomy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,892, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.