Legally
/ˈliːɡəli/
Definitions
In accordance with the law; legitimately.
/ˈliːɡəli/
In a manner that is allowed or required by law.
The company operates legally, adhering to all regulations.
💡 Simply: Doing things the way the rules say you should, like when you're playing a game and you follow all the rules.
👶 For kids: Doing things the way the law says is okay.
More Examples
The evidence was obtained legally and could be used in court.
She is legally allowed to drive because she has a valid license.
The agreement was legally signed and enforceable.
How It's Used
"The contract was legally binding."
"The company is legally obligated to pay its taxes."
"The election results were legally contested."
Idioms & expressions
legally blind
A term used to describe a degree of vision impairment that meets specific legal requirements and entitles the person to certain benefits or accommodations.
"The doctor determined that he was legally blind, which entitled him to disability benefits."
legally actionable
Capable of being the subject of a lawsuit or legal proceeding.
"His comments were deemed legally actionable by the company and prompted a formal warning."
From Middle English *legali*, from Old French *legal* or directly from Latin *legalis* ('of or relating to law'), from *lex* ('law').
The term 'legally' began to see more frequent use with the development of formalized legal systems and institutions throughout history.
Memory tip
Think of 'leg' which means 'law'. 'Legally' describes something done according to the law.