Definitions and Examples of illegal, unlawful, illicit
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Contrary to or forbidden by law, especially criminal law.
Example
Selling drugs is an illegal activity that can lead to imprisonment.
Not authorized by law; illegal.
Example
Entering someone's property without permission is unlawful and can result in legal action.
Forbidden by law, rules, or custom.
Example
Having an illicit affair with a married person can cause emotional distress for all parties involved.
Key Differences: illegal vs unlawful vs illicit
- 1Illegal refers to actions that are prohibited by law, especially criminal law.
- 2Unlawful refers to actions that are not authorized by law.
- 3Illicit refers to actions that are forbidden by law, rules, or custom.
Effective Usage of illegal, unlawful, illicit
- 1Legal Matters: Use these antonyms to describe actions that are not permitted by law.
- 2News Reports: Incorporate these words in news reports to describe illegal activities.
- 3Creative Writing: Utilize these antonyms in creative writing to create tension and conflict.
Remember this!
The antonyms illegal, unlawful, and illicit describe actions or behaviors that are not permitted by law. Illegal refers to actions that are prohibited by law, unlawful refers to actions that are not authorized by law, and illicit refers to actions that are forbidden by law, rules, or custom. Use these words in legal matters, news reports, and creative writing to create tension and conflict.
