French Conversation · Level 88
60 words
French word
illégitime
Pronunciation
IPA/ileʒitim/
Meaning
- adjectiveunjust
Example
C'est une décision illégitime.
This is an unjust decision.
More examples
Son pouvoir est considéré comme illégitime par une partie de la population.
His power is considered illegitimate by part of the population.
Core concept
A claim kept beyond the boundary of what an institution or community accepts as valid.
Common phrases
une décision illégitime
an illegitimate decision
un gouvernement illégitime
an illegitimate government
un pouvoir illégitime
illegitimate power
Similar words
illégal: Forbidden by law because it violates legal requirements.
injuste: Failing to treat people or situations fairly.
abusif: Using power improperly beyond its rightful scope.
inapproprié: Inappropriate for the context or circumstances.
Definition in French
Qui, aux yeux de la loi, d'une institution ou de l'opinion, n'est pas considéré comme justifié ou valide et manque de reconnaissance formelle.
Word origin
French illégitime derives from Latin illegitimus, in- meaning not plus legitimus meaning lawful, with the form passing into French.
Usage tips
- Illégitime often sounds formal and critical when applied to authority, while illégal more specifically describes a breach of law.
Other meanings
- illegitimateadjective
- illegaladjective
Opposites
- légitimelegitimateadjective
- licitelawfuladjective
Related words
- illégitimitéillegitimacynoun
- illégitimementillegitimatelyadverb
- illégitimerdelegitimizeverb