Meaning & Definition of word "Unlawful"

Unlawful

/ʌnˈlɔːfəl/

adjective:

  • 1. Not conforming to, permitted by, or recognized by law or rules.
    • Example: The company faced severe penalties for engaging in unlawful business practices.
  • 2. Illegal; not authorized by law.
    • Example: He was arrested for his involvement in unlawful activities.
  • 3. Prohibited by law; criminal.
    • Example: The police reported an increase in unlawful possession of firearms in the area.
  • 4. Outside the bounds of legal authority or jurisdiction.
    • Example: The protesters argued that the government's actions were unlawful and violated their rights.

Etymology

Middle English: from un- 'not' + lawful.

Common Phrases and Expressions

unlawful assembly:

A gathering of people that is deemed illegal by the authorities.

unlawful behavior:

Actions that violate legal statutes.

unlawful entry:

The act of entering a property without permission.

Related Words

lawful:

Permitted by law; legal.

illicit:

Forbidden by law, rules, or custom.

criminal:

Relating to crime.

Slang Meanings of unlawful

Meaning: Sketchy

Example Sentence: That deal sounds pretty sketchy; it might be unlawful.

Meaning: On the wrong side of the law

Example Sentence: He was definitely living on the wrong side of the law with those activities.