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Extralegal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Extralegal refers to actions or activities that exist outside the framework of the law but are not necessarily illegal. It describes situations beyond legal authority or regulation.

extralegal

/ˌɛkstrəˈliɡəl/ /ˌɛkstrəˈliːɡəl/

Definition:

Outside or beyond the authority of the law; not regulated by legal statutes.

Synonyms:

illegal, unlawful, unauthorized, unofficial

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

legal, lawful, authorized

Common Collocations:

extralegal measures, extralegal activities, extralegal authority

Derivatives:

extralegally, extralegality

Usage Tips:

Use "extralegal" to describe actions outside formal law but not necessarily illegal, often implying lack of official sanction.

Common Phrases:

extralegal action, extralegal means, extralegal justice

Etymology:

From Latin "extra" (outside) + "legalis" (legal), meaning beyond legal authority.

Examples:

  • 1. The government sometimes uses extralegal measures in emergencies.
  • 2. Vigilante groups operate in an extralegal manner.
  • 3. The committee’s decisions were criticized as extralegal by experts.
  • 4. Some communities rely on extralegal systems for dispute resolution.

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