LEGAL meaning and definition

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What Does "Legal" Mean?

In today's world, the term "legal" is often thrown around without much thought. We hear phrases like "that's not legal" or "I'm going to take this matter to a lawyer and make it legal." But what does "legal" really mean?

To start with, the word "law" comes from the Old English words "lagu" meaning "custom" or "usage" and "gewrit" meaning "written." In essence, law refers to the rules and regulations that govern human behavior. These rules are enforced through a system of government, courts, and laws.

In its most basic sense, "legal" means conforming to or in accordance with the law. Something that is legal is deemed acceptable by the governing authorities and can be enforced through the legal system. On the other hand, something that is illegal is against the law and punishable by the state.

However, being legal doesn't just mean following the rules of the land. It also implies a level of morality, ethics, and fairness. Legal actions or activities are those that are considered justifiable, reasonable, and morally sound.

In practice, "legal" can have different meanings depending on the context. For instance:

In a commercial setting, something may be legal if it complies with industry regulations, contracts, and intellectual property laws.
In a social context, something may be legal if it is allowed by societal norms, customs, or community standards.
In a criminal context, something may be legal if it does not violate any federal, state, or local laws.

In recent years, the concept of "legality" has taken on new meanings. With the rise of social media and online platforms, the term "legal" is often used to describe content that is compliant with online community guidelines, terms of service, and intellectual property laws.

Moreover, the legalization of certain activities or substances has sparked debates about what is considered legal. For example, the legalization of marijuana in some countries has raised questions about its impact on public health, drug use, and criminal justice systems.

In conclusion, "legal" is a term that encompasses not only compliance with rules and regulations but also moral and ethical considerations. As society continues to evolve, our understanding of what is legal will likely change, reflecting new norms, values, and societal standards.

Sources:

Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Black's Law Dictionary
Oxford English Dictionary
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy

I hope this article helps clarify the meaning of "legal." If you have any questions or would like to know more about a specific aspect of legality, please don't hesitate to ask!

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LEGAL meaning and definition

What Does "Legal" Mean?

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