Legitimately: meaning, definitions and examples
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legitimately
[ lɪˈdʒɪtɪmətli ]
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 |
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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
Translations of the word "legitimately" in other languages:
🇵🇹 legitimamente
🇮🇳 वैध रूप से
🇩🇪 legitim
🇮🇩 secara sah
🇺🇦 легітимно
🇵🇱 legalnie
🇯🇵 正当に
🇫🇷 légitimement
🇪🇸 legítimamente
🇹🇷 meşru olarak
🇰🇷 정당하게
🇸🇦 بشكل شرعي
🇨🇿 legitimně
🇸🇰 legitímne
🇨🇳 合法地
🇸🇮 legitimno
🇮🇸 löglega
🇰🇿 заңды түрде
🇬🇪 ლეგიტიმურად
🇦🇿 qanuni olaraq
🇲🇽 legítimamente
Etymology
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.