Illegal

Definition

Illegal is an adjective that describes something that is forbidden by law, rules, or regulations. It can also refer to actions or activities that violate established rules.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun (informally, referring to a person engaging in illegal activities)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈliːɡəl/
• Respelling: ih-LEE-guhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈliːɡəl/
• Respelling: ih-LEE-guhl

Etymology

The word "illegal" originates from the Latin "illēgālis," which combines "in-" meaning "not" and "lēgālis," meaning "legal" or "lawful." It was introduced into Middle English in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Illegality (noun)
• Illegally (adverb)
• Illegalize (verb)
• Illegitimately (adverb)
• Unlawful (adjective)

Synonyms

• Unlawful
• Prohibited
• Illicit

Antonyms

• Legal
• Lawful
• Permissible

Usage

The term "illegal" is commonly used in legal, social, and political contexts. For example, "The company was fined for illegal dumping of waste," or "He was charged with possessing illegal substances."

Related Terms

• Criminal: Pertaining to actions that violate laws.
• Prohibition: A ban or legal prevention.
• Contraband: Goods that are illegal to trade or possess.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Forbidden by law: Refers to actions or items that are prohibited by legal statutes.
  • Example: "Driving without a license is illegal."
• Against rules or regulations: Describes activities that contravene established guidelines.
  • Example: "Using an unregistered device in the network is illegal."

Noun

• (Informal, sometimes pejorative) A person engaged in illegal activities: Refers to someone who is in violation of legal norms, such as entering a country without proper authorization.
  • Example: "The authorities are addressing the concerns about illegals crossing the border."