lawfully

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lawfully

The couple was lawfully married in a small ceremony.

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.
lawfully

The couple was lawfully married in a small ceremony.

Adverb
  1. by law; conforming to the law
    • we are lawfully wedded now
  2. in a manner acceptable to common custom
    • you cannot do this legitimately!