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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legitimately

This word can also be used in a general sense to indicate something is fair or just.

  • They are legitimately worried about the situation.
  • She has a legitimately high score in the game.
lawfully

This word is used in legal contexts to indicate that something is in accordance with the law.

  • He carried out the actions lawfully.
  • The contract was lawfully binding.
genuinely

Use this word to emphasize sincerity or authenticity.

  • She was genuinely concerned about your health.
  • I genuinely appreciate your help.
truly

Use this word to highlight truthfulness or realness.

  • She truly loves her family.
  • He was truly grateful for the opportunity.
rightly

Use this word to indicate that something is correct or justified.

  • He rightly pointed out the issues in the report.
  • She was rightly honored for her work.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • He legitimately owns the property
  • Her claim was legitimately approved by the court
truly

This word is used to emphasize the sincerity or accuracy of a statement. It's often employed in both formal and informal contexts.

  • He was truly sorry for his mistakes
  • This is truly the best pizza I've ever had
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.

  • Honestly, I didn't think the movie was that good
  • She answered all the questions honestly
genuinely

This word is used to describe actions or feelings that are sincere and without any pretense.

  • She was genuinely happy to see him
  • He genuinely cares about his friends

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.