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legitimized

Example Sentences

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Some opposed the measure, though, arguing it legitimized illegal businesses and could give the city a reason to keep them around.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 4, 2026

The Declaration of Independence legitimized the cause of the rebels but also empowered them to brand loyalists as traitors who could be legally sentenced to death.

From The Wall Street Journal Jan. 9, 2026

Medieval belts also managed a celebration of the pregnant silhouette, but devotion to Mary rather than patriotic “populationism” legitimized it.

From Slate Jul. 21, 2025

Lincoln had to step gingerly, for a declaration of war against his own people was loathsome but more importantly would have legitimized the Confederacy as a nation able to establish diplomatic ties internationally.

From Seattle Times Apr. 30, 2024

In any case, the one man paved the way for the deeds of the other, in a sense foreshadowed and even legitimized them.

From "The Stranger" by Albert Camus