B1adjectiveformal10K+

Unconstitutional

UK /["/ˌʌnˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənl/"]/US /["/ˌʌnˌkɑːnstɪˈtuːʃənl/"]/

Definition

not allowed by the constitution of a country, a political system or an organization

In simple words: Not allowed by the constitution of a country.

Examples

  • The judges declared the decision unconstitutional.

Usage notes

Use 'unconstitutional' in legal and formal contexts when referring to laws or actions that violate a constitution. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'un' + 'constitution' — something that breaks the rules of the constitution.

Collocations

  • unconstitutional law
  • unconstitutional action
  • declare unconstitutional

Synonyms

  • illegal
  • unlawful
  • illegitimate
  • forbidden

Antonyms

  • constitutional
  • legal

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'illegitimate' when they are not exactly the same.
  • Using it in non-legal contexts.
  • Incorrectly conjugating as a verb.