ilícito
“ilícito” means “illegal” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
illegal
Also: unlawful, illicit
📝 In Action
El tráfico ilícito de animales es un crimen grave.
B1The illegal wildlife trade is a serious crime.
Obtuvo su fortuna de manera ilícita.
B2He obtained his fortune in an unlawful way.
Las autoridades cerraron el casino por actividades ilícitas.
C1The authorities closed the casino due to illegal activities.
illegal act
Also: offense
📝 In Action
La policía investiga el ilícito ocurrido anoche.
B2The police are investigating the illegal act that occurred last night.
Fue arrestado en el momento de cometer el ilícito.
C1He was arrested at the moment of committing the offense.
No hay pruebas que vinculen al sospechoso con el ilícito.
C2There is no evidence linking the suspect to the crime.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ilícito
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is an example of an 'acto ilícito'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'illicitus.' This is formed by combining 'in-' (meaning 'not') and 'licitus' (meaning 'permitted' or 'allowed').
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ilícito' different from 'ilegal'?
Technically, they are very similar. 'Ilegal' means strictly 'against the law,' while 'ilícito' can also mean 'against the rules' or 'morally wrong in a formal context.' However, in 90% of cases, you can use them as synonyms, with 'ilícito' being more formal.
Can I use 'ilícito' for a romantic affair?
Yes, 'un romance ilícito' or 'un amor ilícito' is a common literary way to describe a relationship that is forbidden or socially unacceptable.
Is it a common word in daily speech?
Not really. You'll hear it on the news or read it in a book, but if you're talking to a friend about someone breaking the rules, you'd probably just say 'No es legal' or 'Está prohibido'.