Legitimately: meaning, definitions and examples

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legitimately

 

[ lɪˈdʒɪtɪmətli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

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

Examples of usage

  • He earned his degree legitimately.
  • The company was run legitimately and ethically.
  • She won the competition legitimately.
Context #2 | Adverb

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

genuinely, honestly, truly

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,674, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.