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Legitimate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Legitimate means something that is lawful, valid, or justified. It can describe actions, claims, or authority that are accepted as proper or correct according to rules or standards.

legitimate

/lɪˈdʒɪtəmɪt/ /lɪˈdʒɪtəmət/

Definition:

Conforming to the law or rules; valid, justified, or acceptable.

Synonyms:

lawful, valid, rightful, genuine, authorized

Part of Speech:

adjective, verb

Antonyms:

illegitimate, invalid, unlawful

Common Collocations:

legitimate reason, legitimate claim, legitimate business, legitimate authority, legitimate concern

Derivatives:

legitimately, legitimize, legitimacy

Usage Tips:

Use "legitimate" to describe something lawful or justified; as a verb, it means to make something legal or valid.

Common Phrases:

legitimate heir, legitimate excuse, legitimate target

Etymology:

From Latin "legitimatus," past participle of "legitimare," meaning "to make lawful."

Examples:

  • 1. The contract was deemed legitimate by the court.
  • 2. She has a legitimate reason for being late.
  • 3. The government aims to legitimize informal settlements.
  • 4. His concerns about safety are entirely legitimate.

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