Inklingo

How to Say "lawful" in Spanish

English → Spanish

legal

leh-GAHL/leˈɣal/

adjectiveB1formal
Use 'legal' when referring to something that is permitted or required by law, often in a formal or official context.
A simple illustration of a wooden judge's gavel resting on a sound block, symbolizing law and legality.

Examples

Necesitas un documento legal para cruzar la frontera.

You need a legal document to cross the border.

La decisión del juez fue completamente legal.

The judge's decision was completely lawful.

Buscaremos asesoramiento legal antes de firmar el contrato.

We will seek legal advice before signing the contract.

Adjective Placement

Like many descriptive adjectives, 'legal' usually goes after the noun it describes: 'un documento legal' (a legal document).

Using the English word order

Mistake: “Dicen que es un legal problema.”

Correction: Dicen que es un problema legal. (Remember: descriptive adjectives usually come after the noun.)

legales

leh-GAH-lehs/leˈɣales/

adjectiveA2
Use 'legales' when referring to documents, procedures, or requirements that are in compliance with existing laws or regulations.
A simple wooden judge's gavel resting horizontally on a round wooden striking block, symbolizing law and rules.

Examples

Necesitamos revisar todos los documentos legales antes de firmar.

We need to review all the legal documents before signing.

Las acciones tomadas por la empresa fueron completamente legales.

The actions taken by the company were completely legal.

El abogado sugirió buscar soluciones legales al problema.

The lawyer suggested looking for lawful solutions to the problem.

Adjective Agreement (Plural)

Since 'legales' is an adjective, its ending must match the noun it describes. If you are talking about more than one thing, you must use the plural form 'legales' (e.g., 'leyes legales').

The -es Plural Rule

The singular form is 'legal.' Because 'legal' ends in a consonant ('l'), you add '-es' to make it plural, resulting in 'legales'.

Forgetting the Plural Ending

Mistake: “Los documentos legal.”

Correction: The correct phrase is 'Los documentos legales.' Always make sure the adjective agrees with the plural noun.

legítimo

adjectiveB1
Use 'legítimo' when referring to something that is genuine, authentic, or rightful, often implying a moral or ancestral claim, not just legal permission.

Examples

Esta es una pintura legítima de Dalí.

This is a genuine painting by Dalí.

Legal vs. Legítimo

Learners often confuse 'legal' and 'legítimo'. Remember that 'legal' strictly refers to adherence to the law, while 'legítimo' can also mean genuine or authentic, especially when discussing ownership or origin.

Related Translations

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