Definition of legalnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word legal different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of legal are lawful, legitimate, and licit. While all these words mean "being in accordance with law," legal applies to what is sanctioned by law or in conformity with the law, especially as it is written or administered by the courts.

legal residents of the state

When can lawful be used instead of legal?

The meanings of lawful and legal largely overlap; however, lawful may apply to conformity with law of any sort (such as natural, divine, common, or canon).

the lawful sovereign

Where would legitimate be a reasonable alternative to legal?

In some situations, the words legitimate and legal are roughly equivalent. However, legitimate may apply to a legal right or status but also, in extended use, to a right or status supported by tradition, custom, or accepted standards.

a perfectly legitimate question about taxes

When would licit be a good substitute for legal?

The words licit and legal can be used in similar contexts, but licit applies to a strict conformity to the provisions of the law and applies especially to what is regulated by law.

the licit use of drugs by doctors

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of legal During his time leading USC’s legal office, Kim was on front lines of responding to complex university issues, including USC’s part in the Varsity Blues admissions scandal, reforms to the athletic department and the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 4 Feb. 2026 Haitian immigrants in limbo A federal court ruling to maintain the temporary legal status of Haitian immigrants has not quelled fears for thousands of people in the community. Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 4 Feb. 2026 What follows is not a quick montage of temporary setbacks, but a grinding legal odyssey through an all-too-familiar hell determined to make the already-struggling Amanda pay for someone else’s mistake. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 4 Feb. 2026 New plugins tailored for specific industries like sales, finance, data marketing and legal launched on Friday. Hadas Gold, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for legal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for legal
Adjective
  • Sheriff Chris Nanos said investigators are also examining ransom notes tied to the case, though officials declined to say whether the notes are legitimate or provide details about their contents.
    Dante Motley, Austin American Statesman, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Abrams, the veteran diplomat, said engaging opposition actors, such as Maria Corina Machado, is a core diplomatic responsibility, particularly in a country the United States does not recognize as having a legitimate government.
    Yamlek Mojica Loaisiga, Los Angeles Times, 4 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Tall, affectionate and funny, Charles moved through life demanding moral clarity, which could be intimidating, Savannah said.
    Amanda Musa, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Benedict Cumberbatch will undoubtedly bring the intelligence, depth, and moral complexity this role demands.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 3 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Karp’s defense of Epstein raises ethical and professional questions.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 5 Feb. 2026
  • The party is attempting to establish itself as the responsible anchor of a fragile coalition — a role that demands ethical clarity, internal coherence, and strategic restraint.
    Sam Mkokeli, semafor.com, 4 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Hosts are responsible for keeping the campground and fire pits clean, performing basic maintenance, restocking the toilets, and assisting visiting campers with check-in.
    Outside, Outside, 4 Feb. 2026
  • What's more, its edge is precision-ground to deliver clean cuts on everything from paper and packages to paracord and fabrics.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • As of Thursday morning, five patients were listed in fair condition, three in good condition and one in critical condition.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Two men were taken to the hospital in critical condition, and two other men were in fair condition.
    David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 6 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Legal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/legal. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on legal

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