What is legally? Pronunciation and usage in English

legally means . Learn how to pronounce and use legally through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of legally

legallyadverb

/ˈliːɡəli/
Definition & pronunciation of legally

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "legally." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "leg": This part is fairly straightforward. Pronounce it like "legh" – like the word "leg" you already know. The "e" is a short "e" sound, like in "bed."

  • "ally": This is where the challenge lies. The "a" in "ally" is pronounced with a flat "eh" sound, almost like you're saying "eh-lee." It's NOT the long "a" sound like in "day."

2. Putting it Together:

  • The entire word is pronounced roughly as: “leh-guh-lee”

Here’s a more detailed breakdown with phonetic symbols (for those who like it):

  • /lɛˈɡəli/

    • lɛ: Sounds like “leh” (as in “leg”)
    • ˈɡə: Sounds like “guh” (a short, unstressed "uh" sound)
    • li: Sounds like "lee" (as in “Lee, the actor”)

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't overemphasize the "a" in "ally." Keep it a short, flat "eh" sound.
  • Listen to native speakers. The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. You can find many examples on:
    • Google Translate: Type "legally" and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/legally/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce legally" – you’ll find plenty of videos.

Would you like me to:

  • Give you some example sentences to practice with?
  • Focus on a specific part of the pronunciation (like the "ally" sound)?

Usage and examples with the word legally in English

Let's break down how to use the word "legally" in English. It's a pretty common and important word, but it needs to be used correctly.

1. Basic Meaning:

"Legally" means "in accordance with the law" or "by the rules set by the law." It describes something that is permissible or authorized by legal regulations.

2. How to Use It in Sentences:

Here are some examples demonstrating different ways to incorporate "legally":

  • Describing an action: "He sold the property legally after obtaining all the necessary permits." (Meaning he followed the law when selling the property.)
  • Describing ownership: "She owns the car legally; she paid for it with her own savings." (Meaning she has legitimate ownership.)
  • Describing a business operation: "The company operates legally and complies with all relevant environmental regulations." (Meaning the company does things according to the law.)
  • Expressing doubt or questioning: “Are you sure you can do that legally?” (Questioning if something is allowed by law.)
  • Contrast with illegal: “He tried to smuggle the goods, but it was discovered legally and they were seized.” (Highlighting the difference between an illegal action and one that is legal.)

3. Common Phrases and Constructions:

  • Legally binding: This means the agreement or contract is enforceable in a court of law. "The contract is legally binding on both parties."
  • Legally permissible: Similar to "legally," it means allowed by law. “It is legally permissible to fish in this lake.”
  • Legally speaking: This phrase is often used to preface a statement that's focusing on the legal aspects of a situation. “Legally speaking, the situation is complex.” (It’s a polite way of saying you're about to explain something through a legal lens.)
  • In a legal sense: Similar to "legally speaking". “In a legal sense, he was not at fault.”

4. Important Considerations:

  • Context is key: The exact nuance of "legally" can change slightly based on the surrounding words.
  • Legal Advice: “Legally” refers to the law – it doesn’t provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, you must consult with a qualified lawyer.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Using it unnecessarily: Don't over-use "legally." Sometimes, the context makes it clear something is legal.
  • Confusing with "illegal": "Legally" is the opposite of "illegal."

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Do you have a specific sentence you’re trying to use "legally" in?
  • Are you interested in a particular type of context (e.g., business, legal, everyday conversation)?

Synonyms for the word legally

Practice with vocabulary legally

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Companies must ensure they operate ________ within the country's tax regulations.
  2. After obtaining the necessary permits, the construction project could ________ commence.
  3. The board of directors ________ approved the new investment strategy during the quarterly meeting.
  4. To ensure the safety of all participants, the equipment must be installed ________ according to manufacturer guidelines.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. In many countries, it is a requirement to be at least 18 years old to ________ purchase alcohol. a) formally b) ethically c) legally d) morally

  2. Which of the following terms describes an action or status that is in accordance with the law? (Select all that apply) a) legally binding b) morally sound c) lawfully compliant d) ethically responsible

  3. The government's decision to restrict public gatherings was ________ challenged in the high court by several civil rights groups. a) formally b) legitimately c) legally d) properly

  4. The indigenous community argued that the land was ________ theirs, having occupied it for centuries, despite more recent colonial claims. a) legally b) rightfully c) officially d) customarily

  5. The contract needs to be ________ signed by both parties before it becomes binding and enforceable. a) legally b) formally c) justly d) suitably

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: It is a requirement by law for all motor vehicles to have valid insurance. Rewrite using "legally":

  2. Original: The company cannot conduct business in this state without obtaining the appropriate licenses. Rewrite using a form of "legally":

  3. Original: The committee made sure that all the necessary steps were followed in the application process. Rewrite, but do not use "legally":

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. legally
  2. legally
  3. officially
  4. properly

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) legally
  2. a) legally binding, c) lawfully compliant
  3. c) legally
  4. b) rightfully
  5. b) formally

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. All motor vehicles are legally required to have valid insurance.
  2. The company cannot legally conduct business in this state without obtaining the appropriate licenses.
  3. The committee ensured that all the necessary steps in the application process were followed properly.

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