# illegality

/ˌɪɫiˈɡæɫɪti/ (US) · /ɪliːɡˈælɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/illegality
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

something that breaks the law and is not allowed. You use it to talk about actions that the law forbids.

For teachers: contravention of statutory or common law, or a specific instance of such contravention.

## Examples

- The illegality of the plan worries everyone.
- The lawyer warns the company about the illegality of hiring workers without proper permits.
- The court examined the alleged illegality of the surveillance program, weighing national security claims against constitutional protections for privacy.

## Synonyms

crime, offense, violation, breach

## Antonyms

legality, lawfulness

## Usage notes

- Often singular for the abstract condition; plural 'illegalities' denotes specific unlawful acts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.