Definition

Adverb: - In an unjust or unfair manner; without a legal or moral right. Describes an action that is done in violation of what is right, just, or legal.

Usage

The adverb "wrongfully" is used to modify a verb, indicating that the action described by the verb was carried out in an unjust, illegal, or improper way. It is commonly used in legal and formal contexts.

Examples

• The court found that the company had wrongfully terminated his contract.
• She was wrongfully accused of a crime she did not commit.
• He sought compensation for being wrongfully imprisoned for ten years.

Advanced Usage

• "Wrongfully obtained": Acquired through illegal or deceitful means.
  • The evidence was ruled inadmissible because it was wrongfully obtained.
• "Wrongfully withheld": Unjustly kept or denied from someone who has a right to it.
  • The benefits were wrongfully withheld from the veteran.

Variants and Related Words

• Wrongful (Adjective): Characterized by unfairness or injustice; unlawful.
  • He filed a lawsuit for wrongful dismissal.
• Wrong (Adjective/Adverb/Noun): Not correct or true; unjust.
  • It is wrong to steal. (Adjective)

Synonyms

• Unjustly: In a manner that violates principles of justice or fairness.
• Unlawfully: In a way that is contrary to or forbidden by law.
• Illegitimately: In a manner not authorized by law or rules.

Antonyms

• Rightfully: In accordance with what is just, legal, or proper.
• Lawfully: In a way that is permitted by law.
• Justly: In a fair and reasonable manner.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Wrongfully convicted": Found guilty of a crime through a legal error or miscarriage of justice.
  • The organization works to free individuals who have been wrongfully convicted.
• "Wrongfully taken": Seized or removed without right or permission.
  • The land was wrongfully taken from its original owners.

Adverb

1. in an unjust or unfair manner
   • the employee claimed that she was wrongfully dismissed
   • people who were wrongfully imprisoned should be released