legal - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
legal Word Meanings
- related to the law
- authorized by law
- lawful
legal Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
legal Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈliːɡl/
US
/ˈliɡl/
legal Word Etymology
From Latin 'legalis' (from 'lex' meaning 'law') → Old French 'legal' → English. Imagine a gavel striking down to signify a lawful decision.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push the door and feel the hinge give a little, the air shifting as space opens. I hold steady, adjust my stance, and keep my steps inside a line someone has set. This moment makes 'legal' feel like a path you can follow, authorized by a rule you recognize. Move forward, you sense the push and pull of permission guiding what you do.
Real Context
Legal is an adjective used for things connected to the system of laws or things permitted by law. You see it in phrases like legal advice, legal rights, and the legal system. It does not automatically mean something is fair or ethical; it just means it follows the rules set by government or authority. In everyday use, people distinguish what is legal from what is ethical or moral; something can be legal but controversial. English also uses legally as an adverb and terms like legal terms in courts, contracts, and offices. Learners often mix up legal with legitimate, or confuse legal with licit or permissible. Remember that illegal is the opposite of legal, not necessarily the opposite of ethical.
Usage Reminders
- Pair legal with nouns that denote law or rules (legal system, legal rights).
- Remember illegal is the opposite of legal, not immoral.
- Differentiate legal from legitimate (authorized vs morally right).
- Use legally when describing actions (adverb).
- Watch for false friends with licit and licit phrases.
- In contracts, legal language is formal and precise.
Common Misconceptions
- Legal means fair or ethical by default.
- Law and morality are the same thing.
- Legitimate and legal are always interchangeable.
- Something can be legal and illegal at the same time.
- Legal language is casual and easy to understand.
Thinking Differences
English often marks legal as a formal, neutral attribute tied to law and formal processes; learners may overemphasize fairness or equate legal with moral. Avoid assuming every legal action is good.
Learning Tips
- Make a clear mental map of legal vs illegal vs lawful.
- Study phrases starting with legal to build collocations.
- Practice using legally in sentences about actions or processes.
- Compare with legitimate to notice subtle differences.
- Read contract samples to see formal usage.
- Watch for false friends with licit and licitus words.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'legal'?
A.Color
B.Illegal
C.Jump
D.School
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'legal' correctly?
A.The legal apple was red.
B.He jumped over the legal fence.
C.She ran on the legal street.
D.I legal to see the movie.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'legal'?
A.Happy
B.Illegal
C.Fast
D.Hand
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'legal'?
A.Alive
B.Illegal
C.Healthy
D.Kind
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context of 'legal'?
A.Baking a cake
B.Obeying traffic laws
C.Playing in the park
D.Watching a movie
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App