Want to say unlawful differently? Here are other words for unlawful and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of unlawful
The primary meaning of "unlawful" is contrary to or forbidden by law.
Etymology of unlawful
The word "unlawful" originated from Old English and Old Norse words, with "un-" meaning "not" and "lawful" derived from "lagu" meaning law, and has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe actions or activities that are contrary to or forbidden by law.
Synonyms
illegal
illicit
unlawful
illegitimate
unauthorized
unlicensed
criminal
felonious
lawless
reckless
irresponsible
wrongful
unjust
immoral
unethical
corrupt
crooked
shady
dubious
questionable
suspicious
prohibited
forbidden
banned
restricted
contraband
pirated
smuggled
bootlegged
outlawed
proscribed
taboo
verboten
unlawful
illegitimate
unorthodox
unconventional
irregular
improper
unseemly
indecent
unbecoming
indecorous
unprofessional
unscrupulous
dishonest
fraudulent
deceptive
corrupt
nefarious
villainous
iniquitous
heinous
atrocious
abhorrent
odious
detestable
despicable
contemptible
egregious
flagrant
blatant
gross
egregious
flagitious
Definitions
- Contrary to or forbidden by law
- Not legally recognized or sanctioned
- Contrary to or forbidden by a law or regulation
Usage Examples
- The company was fined for unlawful business practices.
- The police arrested several people for unlawful assembly.
- The court ruled that the government's actions were unlawful and violated human rights.
Antonyms
lawful
legal
legitimate
authorized
licensed
legitimate
sanctioned
permitted
allowed
approved
legitimate
justified
warranted
reasonable
proper
decent
moral
ethical
honest
upright
virtuous
righteous
just
fair
equitable
impartial
unbiased
legitimate
official
sanctioned
authorized
approved
endorsed
ratified
validated
confirmed
legitimate