What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illegitimate
Example
The king's illegitimate son was not eligible for the throne. [illegitimate: adjective]
Example
The company's illegitimate business practices led to their downfall. [illegitimate: adjective]
Example
His argument was deemed illegitimate due to lack of evidence. [illegitimate: adjective]
invalid
Example
The contract was declared invalid due to a technicality. [invalid: adjective]
Example
She became an invalid after her accident and could no longer work. [invalid: noun]
Example
His argument was proven invalid by the opposing team's evidence. [invalid: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Invalid is more commonly used than illegitimate in everyday language. Invalid is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while illegitimate is less common and refers to specific situations such as children born out of wedlock or businesses with unethical practices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between illegitimate and invalid?
Both illegitimate and invalid can be used in formal and informal contexts, but invalid is more commonly used in legal or official settings and may be considered more formal than illegitimate.
