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Legitimize - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Legitimize means to make something lawful, valid, or acceptable. It often refers to giving official approval or justification to an action, idea, or institution. Example: The new law legitimized their rights.

legitimize

/lɪˈdʒɪtəˌmaɪz/ /lɪˈdʒɪtɪmaɪz/

Definition:

To make something legal, valid, or acceptable according to established standards.

Synonyms:

validate, authorize, sanction, justify

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

invalidate, prohibit, ban

Common Collocations:

legitimize power, legitimize authority, legitimize claims

Derivatives:

legitimization, legitimizing

Usage Tips:

Use "legitimize" when referring to giving official approval or making something lawful or acceptable.

Common Phrases:

legitimize a government, legitimize a decision, legitimize an action

Etymology:

Derived from Latin "legitimus" (lawful) and the suffix "-ize" (to make).

Examples:

  • 1. The new law will legitimize online voting in the next election.
  • 2. His efforts helped legitimize the small business in the eyes of investors.
  • 3. Some argue that fame does not legitimize poor behavior.
  • 4. The treaty was signed to legitimize trade between the two countries.

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