C1adjectiveformal2K

Legitimate

UK /["/lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət/"]/US /["/lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət/"]/

Definition

for which there is a fair and acceptable reason

In simple words: Real or acceptable; not false.

Examples

a legitimate grievance
It seemed a **perfectly legitimate** question.
Politicians are legitimate targets for satire.
Parents' concerns about the disease are quite legitimate.
People have a legitimate expectation that their politicians should be honest.
The court ruled that celebrities' children were not a legitimate target for press intrusion.
the legitimate government of the country
Is his business strictly legitimate?
The legitimate government was reinstated after the uprising.

Usage notes

Use 'legitimate' in formal contexts to describe authenticity or legality. Avoid in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

legitimate + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'legit' – it’s like a badge showing something is real.

Collocations

be
seem
consider something
completely
entirely
perfectly
be
seem
consider something
completely
entirely
perfectly

Synonyms

valid, justifiable
legal

Antonyms

illegitimate
unjustified
fake

Common mistakes

Misusing 'legitimate' when 'legit' is more appropriate in slang contexts.
Confusing with 'illegitimate' without understanding its negative connotation.
Using 'legitimate' as a verb instead of as an adjective.