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Synonyms

civilly

American  
[siv-uh-lee] / ˈsɪv ə li /

adverb

  1. politely; courteously.

  2. in accordance with civil law.


Etymology

Origin of civilly

1400–50; late Middle English. See civil, -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While the Justice Department settles most tax matters civilly through fines, when prosecutors do charge criminal fraud, their conviction rate is over 90%.

From Salon

In general, the law is deferential to police, giving officers significant discretion to use force, making it difficult to hold them criminally or civilly liable.

From The Wall Street Journal

This latest revelation is fueling debate over whether the city of L.A. or the state of California can be found civilly liable for its role in the fire.

From Los Angeles Times

In the Civil Rights Movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned breaking unjust laws openly, cheerfully, lovingly and civilly, while willingly accepting the penalty.

From Salon

When their prison terms ends, a judge can civilly commit them to a state hospital, release them unconditionally or direct them into the DSH’s conditional release program.

From Los Angeles Times