SAT Vocabulary: Understanding ‘Illegal’ and Its Usage
Learn the meaning, history, and correct usage of the word ‘illegal’ for your SAT preparation. This video covers the definition, synonyms, antonyms, and common mistakes to avoid when using this important vocabulary term.
Imagine you’re driving down the highway, and suddenly you realize you’re going way over the speed limit.
That’s right, you’re doing something illegal. But what exactly does illegal mean, and why is it important for your SAT vocabulary?
Let’s find out.
Word type: Illegal is an adjective.
Meaning: Illegal means not allowed by the law or rules.
It describes actions, objects, or situations that are prohibited, unlawful, or against established regulations.
Word history: The word illegal comes from the Latin prefix il meaning not, and legalis meaning legal.
It entered the English language in the early seventeenth century, derived from Medieval Latin illegalis.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for illegal include unlawful, illicit, prohibited, banned, and criminal.
Antonyms: On the other hand, antonyms for illegal are legal, lawful, legitimate, and permissible.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how we can use illegal in different contexts. The smuggler was arrested for his illegal activities at the border.
Parking in front of a fire hydrant is illegal and can result in a hefty fine. The company faced severe penalties for its illegal business practices.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing illegal with illicit. While both words relate to things that are not allowed, illicit often carries a stronger connotation of moral wrongness, whereas illegal strictly refers to what’s against the law.
Another error is using illegal to describe people, which can be considered offensive. Instead of saying an illegal immigrant, it’s more appropriate to say an undocumented immigrant or a person with illegal immigration status.
Understanding the word illegal and using it correctly can help you in various sections of the SAT, including reading comprehension and writing.
It’s a versatile word that appears in discussions about law, ethics, and social issues. Remember, illegal simply means against the law, whether you’re talking about actions, substances, or practices.
By mastering this word and its usage, you’re one step closer to acing your SAT vocabulary section.
