legality

American  

[lee-gal-i-tee] / liˈgæl ɪ ti /

noun

PLURAL

legalities

1. the state or quality of being in conformity with the law; lawfulness.

   Synonyms:

   validity , legitimacy

2. attachment to or observance of law.

3. Usually legalities. a duty or obligation imposed by law.

4. Theology.  reliance on good works for salvation rather than on free grace.

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legality British  

/ lɪˈɡælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being legal or lawful

2. adherence to legal principles

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Other Word Forms

• pseudolegality noun

Etymology

Origin of legality

1425–75; late Middle English legalite < Medieval Latin lēgālitās. See legal, -ity

Example Sentences

The legality of the boat strikes has been contested by U.S. lawmakers, foreign allies, the United Nations and human-rights groups.

From The Wall Street Journal

But they must first deal with the legalities of their bequest.

From MarketWatch

The Supreme Court’s decision on the legality of tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act could impact future trade policy.

From Barron's

In later hearings, it came to light that Halligan never showed the full indictment to the grand jury that indicted Comey in September, which called the legality of the case into question.

From Salon

Federal law prohibits people who use drugs from possessing firearms or ammunition, although a federal judge challenged the legality earlier this year.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• validity