lawfully
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb: 1. In a way that is permitted or recognized by the law; legally. This describes an action done in accordance with established laws, statutes, or legal authority. 2. In a legitimate or rightful manner; justifiably. This describes an action done in a way that is accepted as valid, proper, or conforming to common standards of fairness.
Usage and Examples
Meaning 1 (Legally):
- The property was lawfully transferred to the new owner. (The transfer was completed in full compliance with legal procedures.)
- They entered the country lawfully with valid visas. (Their entry was authorized and legal.)
Meaning 2 (Legitimately):
- The funds were lawfully obtained through honest work. (The money was acquired in a proper and rightful way.)
- You cannot lawfully claim this seat as your own. (You do not have a justifiable or rightful claim to it.)
Advanced Usage
- "Lawfully wedded": A formal phrase used in marriage ceremonies to declare the union is legally valid and recognized.
- I now pronounce you lawfully wedded spouses.
- Used to emphasize the contrast with unlawful or illegal actions.
- The court ruled that the evidence was lawfully obtained and therefore admissible.
Variants and Related Words
- Lawful (Adjective): Conforming to, permitted by, or recognized by law.
- He is the lawful owner of the estate.
- Lawfulness (Noun): The quality or state of being lawful.
- The lawfulness of the search was questioned by the defense.
Synonyms
- Legally: In a way that conforms to or is allowed by law.
- Legitimately: In a way that can be defended with logic or justification; lawfully.
- Rightfully: In accordance with what is just, proper, or legally owed.
- Licitly (formal): In a manner not forbidden by law; legally.
Antonyms
- Unlawfully: In a way that is contrary to or forbidden by law.
- Illegally: In a way that violates the law.
- Illegitimately: In a manner not authorized by law or accepted standards.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To do something lawfully: To perform an action within the bounds of the law.
- Protesters have the right to assemble, provided they do so lawfully.
- Lawfully present: A legal status indicating an individual is in a country with official permission.
- Only individuals who are lawfully present may apply for this benefit.
Adverb
- by law; conforming to the law
- we are lawfully wedded now
- in a manner acceptable to common custom
- you cannot do this legitimately!