SAT Vocabulary: Understanding ‘Licit’ – What’s Legally Allowed
Learn about the SAT vocabulary word ‘licit’, including its meaning, usage, and origin. Discover how this adjective describes lawful and permissible actions, and how it differs from its antonym ‘illicit’. Improve your vocabulary for the SAT verbal section with clear examples and common usage tips.
Imagine you’re planning a party for your 18th birthday. You’re excited about finally being able to do certain things legally.
This brings us to our SAT vocabulary word of the day: licit.
Word type: Licit is an adjective.
Meaning: Licit means not forbidden by law, rules, or custom.
In other words, it refers to something that is lawful, legitimate, or permissible.
Word history: The term licit comes from the Latin word licitus, meaning allowed or permitted.
It entered the English language in the late sixteenth century, derived from the Latin licere, which means to be allowed.
Antonyms: The most common antonym for licit is illicit. Other antonyms include illegal, unlawful, illegitimate, and prohibited.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for licit include legal, lawful, legitimate, permissible, and authorized.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how we can use licit in sentences.
The sale of alcohol is licit for adults over twenty one in the United States. The committee ensured that all their fundraising activities were licit and transparent.
Although gambling is licit in some countries, it remains illegal in others. Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing licit with illicit.
Remember, licit means lawful or permitted, while illicit means unlawful or forbidden. Another error is using licit when legal would be more appropriate in everyday language.
Licit is a more formal term often used in academic or legal contexts. Understanding the word licit and its usage is crucial for SAT vocabulary.
It not only enhances your lexicon but also helps in comprehending complex texts, especially those related to law, ethics, or social norms.
Remember, licit refers to what is allowed or permitted by law or custom. By mastering this word, you’re one step closer to acing the verbal section of your SAT.
