legalmente
“legalmente” means “legally” in Spanish (according to the law).
legally
Also: lawfully, by right
📝 In Action
La empresa está legalmente obligada a pagar las horas extra.
B1The company is legally required to pay overtime.
Para conducir, debes obtener tu licencia legalmente.
A2To drive, you must obtain your license legally.
Legalmente, no pueden despedirte sin una causa justificada.
B2Legally, they cannot fire you without a justified reason.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: legalmente
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'legalmente'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Spanish adjective 'legal' (meaning 'lawful') combined with the common adverbial ending '-mente,' which originates from the Latin word *mens* meaning 'mind' or 'manner.' It literally means 'in a legal manner.'
First recorded: Medieval Spanish
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'legalmente' always imply something is good or moral?
Not necessarily. 'Legalmente' only means that something complies with the established laws of a specific government or authority. Laws can change, and something legal might not always be considered ethical or moral.
How is 'legalmente' different from 'legal'?
'Legal' is an adjective that describes a noun (a person, thing, or idea), like 'un contrato legal' (a legal contract). 'Legalmente' is an adverb that describes a verb (an action), like 'firmar legalmente' (to sign legally).