Synonyms of legitimacy

legitimacy

noun

li-ˈji-tə-mə-sē 

as in lawfulness

the quality or state of being legal

the legitimacy of the military dictatorship was not recognized by most other nations

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lawfulness
• legality
• rightfulness
• rightness
• permissibility
• permissibleness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• illegality
• illegitimacy
• unlawfulness
• wrongfulness
• immorality
• wickedness
• wrongness
• badness
• sinfulness
• criminality
• iniquity
• unconstitutionality
• unjustness
• iniquitousness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of legitimacy

The role of commercial satellites in warfare has sparked speculative discussions on their legitimacy as military targets, and what the Pentagon’s role should be in defending them. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 16 July 2026

Richer, also a Republican, relentlessly defended the legitimacy of the vote. — Josh Kelety, Los Angeles Times, 16 July 2026

Nevertheless, holding a credible legislative election would be a significant step toward restoring political legitimacy. — Thomas Wright, The Atlantic, 16 July 2026

One news outlet even speculated Trump could call into question the legitimacy of Georgia's senate seats. — Irene Wright, USA Today, 16 July 2026