bootleg

/'bu:tleg/

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Sure! Let’s break down the word "bootleg" in a way that is easy to understand.

Definition:

Bootleg can be used as a verb, noun, and adjective.

Usage Instructions:

• When using "bootleg" as an adjective, you can describe illegal activities related to alcohol or drugs.
• As a noun, you can refer to the physical part of a boot.
• As a verb, you can talk about the act of selling or making something illegally.

Examples:

• Adjective: "They were caught selling bootleg alcohol at the party."
• Noun: "He wore tall boots with a fancy bootleg design."
• Verb: "They were bootlegging whiskey during the Prohibition era."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "bootleg" can also refer to any unauthorized copying or distribution of content, like music or software. For example: "The artist was upset because someone was bootlegging her new album."

Word Variants:

• Bootlegger (noun): A person who engages in bootlegging.
  • Example: "The bootlegger was arrested for selling illegal alcohol."

Different Meanings:

• In addition to the illegal aspect, "bootleg" can simply refer to the physical part of a boot, but this meaning is less commonly used in everyday conversation.

Synonyms:

• For the illegal aspect: illegal, illicit, underground, black market.
• For the part of the boot: shaft (though this is more specific).

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There aren't specific idioms that use "bootleg," but you might hear phrases like "on the black market," which refers to illegal trade.

Summary:

"Bootleg" describes illegal actions, particularly in selling alcohol or other controlled items. It can also refer to the upper part of a type of shoe. Remember, when you hear "bootleg," think of something that is not allowed by law!

Academic

Adjective

1. distributed or sold illicitly
   • the black economy pays no taxes

Noun

1. the part of a boot above the instep
2. whiskey illegally distilled from a corn mash

Verb

1. produce or distribute illegally
   • bootleg tapes of the diva's singing
2. sell illicit products such as drugs or alcohol
   • They were bootlegging whiskey

Synonyms

• black
• black-market
• contraband
• smuggled
• moonshine
• corn liquor