Legal
ˈliːɡəl
Definitions
2 meaningsConforming to the law; permitted by law.
ˈliːɡəl
Conforming to the law or rules.
The company's actions were deemed legal by the authorities.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a rule. If you follow the rule, it's legal! Like, it's legal to drive a car if you have a license.
👶 For kids: If something is legal, it means it's allowed by the rules, like playing with your toys.
More Examples
It is legal to own a pet dog in most countries.
The legal documents were reviewed by a lawyer.
How It's Used
"The contract was deemed legal by the court."
"All business practices must be legal."
Relating to law or lawyers.
ˈliːɡəl
Relating to the law or lawyers.
She decided to pursue legal action against the company.
💡 Simply: When something is 'legal', it's connected to laws and the people who work with laws, like lawyers and judges. If you need help with a rule, you might go to someone who gives legal advice.
👶 For kids: If something is legal, it means it has to do with the rules made by grown-ups.
More Examples
He is seeking legal counsel regarding the matter.
The legal proceedings took several months.
How It's Used
"He received legal advice from his attorney."
"The legal system is often slow."
Idioms & expressions
legal eagle
A lawyer; an expert in law.
"The company hired a legal eagle to handle the complicated merger."
From Latin *lēgālis* ('of or pertaining to law'), derived from *lēx* ('law'). It entered English in the 14th century.
The word 'legal' has been used in English since the 14th century, primarily in legal and governmental contexts. It reflects the evolving complexity of law and order in society.
Memory tip
Think of the word as a sign: If it's 'legal', it's a green light; if it's not, it's a red light.