Synonyms for

Illegitimate

Verb / ˌɪlɪˈdʒɪtʌmɪt / Another word for illegitimate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not authorized by law; not in accordance with accepted standards or rules

Synonyms & similar words

whoreson unlawful legitimate byblow illegitimatechild illicit outlawed outlaw lovechild bastard illicit unlawful illegal unauthorized improper wrongful unlicensed bootleg prohibited forbidden taboo outlawed contraband criminal unofficial unconstitutional unapproved unorthodox

Synonyms by register

Formal

unlawful illegal unauthorized invalid

Informal

bogus fake phony not on the level

Literary

baseborn lowborn

Antonyms

legitimate lawful legal valid authorized proper rightful

Common collocations

  • illegitimate child
  • illegitimate government
  • illegitimate claim
  • illegitimate reason
  • illegitimate pressure
  • illegitimate use

Word family

noun illegitimacy
adjective illegitimate

Usage note

Often used to describe children born outside of marriage, but can also refer to things that are not lawful or valid. Be mindful of the sensitive connotations when referring to people.

Example sentences

  1. She was afraid to tell her parents that she had an illegitimate child.
  2. The company's actions were deemed illegitimate by the government.
  3. The athlete was disqualified for using an illegitimate substance.
  4. The lawyer argued that the evidence was illegitimate and should be thrown out.
  5. The counterfeit money was illegitimate and could not be used.

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