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]
unlawfully
Example
He was arrested for unlawfully entering the building. [unlawfully: adverb]
Example
The company was fined for unlawfully disposing of hazardous waste. [unlawfully: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unlawfully is more commonly used than illegitimately in everyday language, especially in legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between illegitimately and unlawfully?
Unlawfully is more formal than illegitimately, which is more commonly used in informal contexts.
