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Legitimise Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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legitimise

[lɪˈdʒɪtɪˌmaɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

formal

To make something legal or acceptable according to the law or rules.

Synonyms

approve, authorize, validate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legitimise

To make something legal or acceptable in society, often used in a formal or legal context.

  • The new policy aims to legitimise the use of medical marijuana.
  • They worked hard to legitimise their business in the eyes of the local community.
authorize

To give official permission for something, typically used in more formal or institutional contexts.

  • Only the manager can authorize expenses over $500.
  • The doctor must authorize the use of this medication.
validate

To confirm that something is correct, often used in technical, legal, or formal settings.

  • You need to validate your parking ticket before leaving.
  • The data needs to be validated before the report is published.
approve

To officially accept or agree to something, often used in both formal and informal settings.

  • The board will approve the budget next week.
  • Her parents did not approve of her new boyfriend.

Examples of usage

  • His actions were legitimate under the law.
  • The government had to legitimize the new policy.
  • We need to legitimize our presence here.
Context #2 | Verb

informal

To justify or give credibility to something.

Synonyms

endorse, justify, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
legitimise

Use when you want to make something acceptable or legal in the eyes of others, often in an official sense.

  • The government passed a new law to legitimise online gambling.
  • Parents often try to legitimise their strict rules by explaining the importance for safety.
justify

Use to provide reasons or arguments to show that an action or decision is right or reasonable.

  • He tried to justify his lateness by saying there was unexpected traffic.
  • The manager had to justify the budget cuts to the unhappy employees.
endorse

Choose this when you want to express approval or support for someone or something publicly.

  • Celebrities often endorse products to increase their market appeal.
  • The mayor decided to endorse the new public health initiative.
support

Use when you want to show help or assistance for someone or something, emotionally, financially, or in other ways.

  • Her family came together to support her during the difficult times.
  • Many people support the local animal shelter by volunteering and donating.

Examples of usage

  • He tried to legitimize his decision by providing evidence.
  • She was trying to legitimize her behavior.

Translations

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

Origin of 'legitimise'

The word 'legitimize' originated from the Latin word 'legitimus', meaning lawful or rightful. It entered the English language in the mid-17th century. The concept of legitimizing something has been present throughout history in various legal and social contexts.

See also: delegitimize, legitimize.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,056 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.