illegitimately

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌɪlɪˈdʒɪtəmətli/

KK: /ɪlɪˈdʒɪtəmətli/

adverb

Definition

In a way that is not allowed by law or rules; unlawfully or improperly.

Example

He was accused of acting illegitimately in the business deal.

Conversation

Did you hear about that player being banned from the league?

Yeah, it’s crazy! Apparently, he was playing illegitimately.

I can't believe he thought he could get away with that.

Right? It just ruins the game for everyone else.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

unlawfully

illegally

improperly

Antonyms

legitimately

lawfully

properly

Root Explanation

Illegitimately → It is formed from "il-" (meaning not), "legitimus" (meaning lawful or legitimate), and "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word describes an action that is not done in a lawful or legitimate manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('il-') and 'lawful' ('legitimus') to remember that 'illegitimately' means acting in a way that is not lawful.

Visually Confused Words