anti-constitutional

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Opposed to or violating a constitution: "anti-constitutional" describes actions, laws, or principles that are contrary to or in conflict with the provisions of a constitution, especially a national or state constitution.
Usage Examples
  • (The law was found to violate the constitution.)
  • (Changes that oppose the constitution require a large majority.)
  • (His words opposed the constitutional order.)
Advanced Usage

  • "anti-constitutional sentiment": public opinion that opposes constitutional principles.

    • The protest reflected growing anti-constitutional sentiment among the citizens. (The protest showed that many people were against the constitution.)

  • "anti-constitutional clause": a specific provision in a document that contradicts the constitution.

    • The treaty contained an anti-constitutional clause that was struck down by the court. (The clause conflicted with the constitution and was removed.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Anti-constitutionally (adverb): in a manner that opposes or violates a constitution.

    • The president acted anti-constitutionally by dissolving the parliament. (He violated the constitution by his action.)

  • Anti-constitutionalism (noun): the political ideology or practice of opposing constitutional governance.

    • Anti-constitutionalism can lead to authoritarian rule. (Opposing the constitution may result in dictatorship.)
Synonyms
  • Unconstitutional: not in accordance with a constitution.
    • The ruling was unconstitutional, so it was overturned. (It violated the constitution.)
  • Anti-government: opposed to the established government (broader meaning, not specific to constitution).
    • The group's anti-government rhetoric was considered dangerous. (They opposed the government, not necessarily the constitution.)
Related Idioms

  • "beyond the pale": outside the bounds of acceptable behavior or law, often used for actions that are constitutionally prohibited.

    • The dictator's actions were beyond the pale and anti-constitutional. (His deeds were unacceptable and violated the constitution.)

  • "strike down": to invalidate a law or action as unconstitutional.

    • The court struck down the anti-constitutional measure. (The court declared the measure invalid because it violated the constitution.)