it was legitimate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was legitimate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to affirm the validity or authenticity of something in a past context. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I concluded that it was legitimate to question the findings of the report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The firm also said HMRC had reviewed its courier model in 2011 and confirmed that it was legitimate.

BBC

And it was legitimate.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was legitimate.

The Washington Post

"I didn't know if it was legitimate or not".

The New Yorker

"I was under the impression he had a degree and it was legitimate".

The New York Times - Sports

History's verdict on Kosovo has been that it was legitimate but not strictly legal.

The New York Times

Mr. Zaklad eventually persuaded Mr. Matza that it was legitimate tender.

The New York Times

When questioned by reporters, Goldsmith said it was legitimate to question Khan's "extremist" links.

The Guardian

His college activism may have been that of a minor supporting player, but it was legitimate.

The New Yorker

If it was legitimate, fine, but we need reassurance," he said.

The New York Times - Health

Hence, he said, it was "legitimate" to have a road map for ending that conflict.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it was legitimate", ensure the context clearly defines what standard or authority the subject is considered legitimate under. This adds clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it was legitimate" without specifying the domain of legitimacy. For example, instead of saying "The action was legitimate", clarify: "The action was legitimate under the company's policy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was legitimate" primarily functions as a statement of validation or justification. It asserts that a particular action, decision, or belief aligned with accepted rules, laws, or standards, as demonstrated by Ludwig and its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was legitimate" is a versatile expression used to affirm that something conformed to accepted standards or rules. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, specifying the standard of legitimacy enhances clarity. Consider alternatives like "it was valid" or "it was justified" based on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Keep in mind that overuse without context can lead to vagueness, so ensure clarity when asserting legitimacy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was valid

Replaces 'legitimate' with 'valid', focusing on the formal correctness or acceptability.

it was justified

Substitutes 'legitimate' with 'justified', emphasizing the presence of a good reason or excuse.

it was permissible

Replaces 'legitimate' with 'permissible', stressing that something is allowed by rules or laws.

it was lawful

Substitutes 'legitimate' with 'lawful', highlighting compliance with legal statutes.

it was acceptable

Replaces 'legitimate' with 'acceptable', focusing on whether something is considered satisfactory or suitable.

it was authorized

Substitutes 'legitimate' with 'authorized', emphasizing formal approval or permission.

it was warranted

Replaces 'legitimate' with 'warranted', stressing that there were sufficient reasons for the action.

it was rightful

Substitutes 'legitimate' with 'rightful', denoting a moral or legal entitlement.

it was admissible

Replaces 'legitimate' with 'admissible', focusing on its acceptability in a specific context like court or formal settings.

it was orthodox

Replaces 'legitimate' with 'orthodox', suggesting adherence to established or traditional beliefs or practices.

FAQs

How can I use "it was legitimate" in a sentence?

Use "it was legitimate" to assert that something was in accordance with rules, laws, or accepted standards. For example, "The company's deduction was legitimate because it followed tax regulations".

What can I say instead of "it was legitimate"?

You can use alternatives like "it was valid", "it was justified", or "it was permissible" depending on the context.

Is "it was legitimate" formal or informal?

"It was legitimate" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, consider more precise synonyms such as "it was legally compliant" or "it was officially sanctioned".

What's the difference between "it was legitimate" and "it seemed legitimate"?

"It was legitimate" asserts that something actually met the required standards. "It seemed legitimate" suggests that something appeared to be legitimate, but its true legitimacy might be uncertain.