Definition

The act of making something illegal or prohibiting it by law.

Example

The illegalization of certain substances has led to a decrease in their use.

Conversation

Did you hear about the illegalization of that substance in our state?

Yeah, I read about it; it’s such a big change.

I wonder how it will affect people who used to rely on it.

It’s going to be interesting to see how the community adapts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Illegalization → It is formed from "il-" (meaning not), "legal" (from Latin "legalis", meaning lawful), and "-ization" (meaning the process of making). The word refers to the process of making something not lawful or illegal.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('il-') making something 'lawful' ('legal') into a process of making it 'not lawful' — that's what illegalization means.

Visually Confused Words