Legitimately Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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legitimately
[lɪˈdʒɪtɪmətli ]
Definitions
in a legitimate manner
In a way that is conforming to the law or to rules. In a way that is real, accepted, or official. In a way that is genuine or true. In a way that is justifiable or reasonable.
Synonyms
genuinely, lawfully, rightly, truly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| legitimately |
This word can also be used in a general sense to indicate something is fair or just.
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| lawfully |
This word is used in legal contexts to indicate that something is in accordance with the law.
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| genuinely |
Use this word to emphasize sincerity or authenticity.
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| truly |
Use this word to highlight truthfulness or realness.
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| rightly |
Use this word to indicate that something is correct or justified.
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Examples of usage
- He earned his degree legitimately.
- The company was run legitimately and ethically.
- She won the competition legitimately.
used for emphasis
Used to emphasize the truth or accuracy of a statement. Used to emphasize the honesty or sincerity of a person. Used to emphasize the validity or correctness of an action.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| legitimately |
This word is often used in legal or formal contexts to indicate that something is in accordance with the law or rules.
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| truly |
This word is used to emphasize the sincerity or accuracy of a statement. It's often employed in both formal and informal contexts.
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| honestly |
Used when someone is speaking truthfully and openly, often in casual or conversational settings. It can sometimes carry a negative tone if used to preface criticism.
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| genuinely |
This word is used to describe actions or feelings that are sincere and without any pretense.
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Examples of usage
- I legitimately thought I had it under control.
- She legitimately cares about the well-being of others.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law
- In legal terms, something is considered legitimate if it is recognized by the law, meaning it follows legal standards.
- Legitimacy can also refer to the rightful inheritance or status of an individual, especially in inheritance cases.
- Many legal systems require certain actions or rights to be performed legitimately to avoid disputes and ensure fairness.
Culture
- In modern slang, people often use 'legit' as a shorthand for legitimately, meaning something is truly great or genuine.
- In the world of business, companies strive to establish legitimacy to gain customer trust and succeed in the market.
- Cultural norms often dictate what is considered legitimate behavior in different societies, showing how concepts can vary.
Social Psychology
- People often seek to present themselves as legitimate to gain social acceptance and reinforce their identity.
- Legitimacy can impact authority; when leaders are viewed as legitimate, followers are more likely to comply with rules.
- Studies show that perceptions of legitimacy can affect group dynamics and cohesion, influencing behavior.
Education
- In academia, conduct is considered legitimate when research is done ethically and follows established guidelines.
- Accreditation of educational institutions is a way to ensure the legitimacy of the qualifications students receive.
- Legitimate credentials, like diplomas or certificates, are vital for job applications and career advancement.
Origin of 'legitimately'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'legitimus', meaning lawful or allowable.
- It’s related to the word 'legitimate', which also comes from Latin, showing how things can be recognized as valid.
- The term began to be used in English around the 15th century, evolving over time to include broader meanings.
The word 'legitimately' originated from the Latin word 'legitimatus', which means 'made legal'. It entered the English language in the mid-16th century. The concept of legitimacy has always been tied to law, rules, and truth. Over time, the adverb 'legitimately' has evolved to encompass not just legality, but also authenticity, honesty, and correctness.