What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illegal
Example
It is illegal to drive without a license. [illegal: adjective]
Example
The company was fined for illegal dumping of waste. [illegal: adjective]
unlawful
Example
It is unlawful to discriminate against someone based on their race. [unlawful: adjective]
Example
The police arrested him for unlawful possession of a firearm. [unlawful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Illegal is more commonly used than unlawful in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between illegal and unlawful?
Unlawful is generally considered more formal than illegal, and is often used in legal contexts.
