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Lawful - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Lawful means acting within the boundaries of the law or following legal rules. It describes behavior that is permitted, authorized, or recognized as valid by a governing system.

lawful

/ˈlɔfəl/ /ˈlɔːfəl/

Definition:

Permitted by law, conforming to legal or moral rules.

Synonyms:

legal, legitimate, licit, permissible

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

unlawful, illegal, illicit

Common Collocations:

lawful authority, lawful action, lawful owner, lawful purpose

Derivatives:

lawfully, lawfulness

Usage Tips:

Use "lawful" to describe actions or people complying with the law; avoid confusion with "legal," which often refers to technical legality.

Common Phrases:

lawful wedded wife, by lawful means, in lawful custody

Etymology:

From Old English "lagu" (law) + "-ful" (full of), meaning "full of law."

Examples:

  • 1. The judge ruled the contract was lawful and binding.
  • 2. She is the lawful heir to her grandfather’s estate.
  • 3. Only lawful residents can apply for this benefit.
  • 4. The police ensured the protest remained peaceful and lawful.

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