Inklingo

How to Say "lawfully" in Spanish

English → Spanish

legalmente

leh-gahl-MEHN-teh/le.ɣalˈmen.te/

adverbB1formal
Use 'legalmente' when emphasizing that something is in accordance with the law or official rules, often implying a formal obligation or status.
A perfectly balanced golden scale of justice, resting on a simple wooden surface, symbolizing adherence to the law.

Examples

La empresa está legalmente obligada a pagar las horas extra.

The company is legally required to pay overtime.

Para conducir, debes obtener tu licencia legalmente.

To drive, you must obtain your license legally.

Legalmente, no pueden despedirte sin una causa justificada.

Legally, they cannot fire you without a justified reason.

Adverb Formation

Adverbs ending in '-mente' are built from the feminine form of an adjective (like 'legal' which is the same for masculine and feminine) plus the suffix '-mente'. This works just like adding '-ly' in English.

Using the Adjective Instead

Mistake: “Using 'legal' when you need 'legalmente' (e.g., *'Lo hizo legal'*).”

Correction: Always use the full '-mente' form when describing how an action (a verb) is performed: 'Lo hizo legalmente' (He did it legally).

regularmente

/reh-goo-lahr-MEN-teh//reɣulaɾˈmente/

adverbB2formal
Use 'regularmente' when referring to an action performed in a proper, orderly, or officially sanctioned manner, often highlighting the correct procedure being followed.
A child neatly organizing wooden blocks into a perfect square grid.

Examples

El contrato fue firmado regularmente ante un notario.

The contract was properly signed before a notary.

La empresa opera regularmente bajo las leyes locales.

The company operates lawfully under local laws.

Todo el proceso se llevó a cabo regularmente.

The entire process was carried out methodically and according to rule.

Formal Contexts

When you see this word in a contract or a news report, it likely means 'according to the rules' rather than 'often'.

Legalmente vs. Regularmente

Learners often confuse 'legalmente' and 'regularmente' because both relate to legality. Remember that 'legalmente' focuses on being 'in accordance with the law,' while 'regularmente' emphasizes the 'proper procedure' or 'official manner' of an action.

Related Translations

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