Definitions
- Describing an action or behavior that is allowed or permitted by law. - Referring to something that is in accordance with the law or legal regulations. - Talking about actions that are authorized or sanctioned by the law.
- Describing something that is valid, justifiable, or reasonable. - Referring to something that is legal, authorized, or accepted by society. - Talking about actions or behaviors that are morally or ethically acceptable.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to actions or behaviors that are allowed or accepted.
- 2Both words can be used to describe actions that are in accordance with the law.
- 3Both words can be used to describe actions that are morally or ethically acceptable.
- 4Both words can be used to describe actions that are valid or justifiable.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Lawful is more commonly used to describe actions that are in accordance with the law, while legitimate is more commonly used to describe actions that are morally or ethically acceptable.
- 2Scope: Lawful is more limited in scope and refers specifically to actions that are authorized by law, while legitimate has a broader scope and can refer to actions that are valid or justifiable in various contexts.
- 3Connotation: Lawful has a neutral connotation, while legitimate can have a positive connotation, implying that an action is not only legal but also morally or ethically acceptable.
- 4Formality: Lawful is more formal than legitimate, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Remember this!
While lawful and legitimate share some similarities in meaning, they differ in their origin, usage, scope, connotation, and formality. Lawful specifically refers to actions that are authorized by law, while legitimate has a broader scope and can refer to actions that are valid or justifiable in various contexts. Additionally, legitimate can have a positive connotation, implying that an action is not only legal but also morally or ethically acceptable.
