Synonyms for

Legitimacy

Verb / lʌˈdʒɪtʌmʌsi: / / lɪˈdʒɪtʌmʌsi: / Another word for legitimacy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the quality of being legitimate or reasonable

Synonyms & similar words

illegitimacy genuineness authenticity validity authenticity legality credibility genuineness rightness lawfulness justness honesty rectitude fairness propriety morality uprightness legitimation rightfulness warrant authorization permission entitlement

Synonyms by register

Formal

authenticity validity veracity authority rightfulness

Informal

legit realness genuineness

Literary

orthodoxy rectitude

Antonyms

illegality invalidity unlawfulness disrepute disgrace discredit illegitimacy

Common collocations

  • political legitimacy
  • legal legitimacy
  • social legitimacy
  • question legitimacy
  • grant legitimacy
  • establish legitimacy
  • lose legitimacy
  • legitimacy crisis

Word family

noun legitimacy
verb legitimize
adjective legitimate
adverb legitimately

Usage note

Legitimacy often refers to the quality of being accepted as right and lawful. While 'legit' is a common informal shortening, it should be avoided in formal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. The legitimacy of the company's financial records was verified by an auditor.
  2. The legitimacy of the accusations against him was questioned by his supporters.
  3. The legitimacy of the government's actions was debated in the parliament.
  4. The legitimacy of the contract was confirmed by a lawyer.
  5. The legitimacy of the document was verified by a notary public.

Quotes

  • The only way to deal with fear is to face it head on. - Queen Elizabeth II
  • The legitimacy of the court is based on the trust and confidence of the people. - Elena Kagan
  • Trust is the glue of life. It's the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It's the foundational principle that holds all relationships. - Stephen Covey

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