What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
illegitimately
Example
He obtained the money illegitimately. [illegitimately: adverb]
Example
The company was accused of acting illegitimately. [illegitimately: adverb]
illicitly
Example
The drug was being sold illicitly on the streets. [illicitly: adverb]
Example
She was involved in an illicit relationship with her boss. [illicit: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Illicitly is more commonly used than illegitimately in everyday language. Illicitly is a more versatile word that can be used to describe a wider range of actions that are forbidden by law or rules, while illegitimately is less common and is typically used in more formal or legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between illegitimately and illicitly?
Illegitimately is more formal than illicitly. While both words can be used in formal contexts, illegitimately is more commonly used in legal or academic writing, while illicitly is more commonly used in everyday language.
