What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illegally
Example
He was arrested for illegally entering the country. [illegally: adverb]
Example
The company was fined for illegally dumping waste into the river. [illegally: adverb]
unlawfully
Example
The police officer was charged with unlawfully using excessive force. [unlawfully: adverb]
Example
The landlord was sued for unlawfully evicting the tenant. [unlawfully: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Illegally is more common than unlawfully in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between illegally and unlawfully?
Both words are formal and typically used in legal or official contexts. However, illegally is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
