legally correct

USAGE SUMMARY

"legally correct" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective used to describe something that adheres to the law, making it accurate and correct within the context of the legal system. Example: The will was declared legally correct by the court.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

An interpretation of our law which is morally sounder will be legally correct even if it fits the legal materials less closely than alternative interpretations, provided that it fits those social-fact sources "enough".

SEP

In testimony today, Carlos Fedrigotti, president of Citibank Argentina, described the response as "legally correct," because the bank did not think the diagram was a legal document that would prove Federal Bank's ownership.

The New York Times

And the candidate would be legally correct.

The New York Times

This information needs to be legally correct, as well as effective.

Cornell University

We want to make a prudent decision that is both morally and legally correct.

The New York Times

But that doesn't alter the fact the judgment was humane and legally correct.

The Guardian

I believed at the time, and continue to believe today, that the conclusions were legally correct".

The New York Times

While legally correct, her comment seemed insensitive, according to one seasoned criminal defense lawyer.

The New York Times

Culpability is the touchstone, not whether any particular elements were resolved or whether the nonculpability determination was legally correct.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Our management is frequently influenced by the need to be seen to be medico-legally correct.

Critical Care

If early reports that the suspects came into the country legally prove correct, that could undermine attempts by opponents to link the bombings to political concerns about the immigration overhaul.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "legally correct" when you want to emphasize that something adheres strictly to the law, even if it might have other ethical or moral implications. Consider whether "ethical" or "moral" considerations need to be weighed alongside the legal aspect.

Common error

Don't assume that something that is "legally correct" is automatically ethically sound. Legal compliance doesn't always equate to moral righteousness, and it's crucial to evaluate actions from both perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "legally correct" functions as an adjective modifying a noun. It signifies that the subject it describes adheres to legal standards and requirements. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

16%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "legally correct" is a commonly used adjective phrase indicating adherence to legal standards. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. It appears frequently in contexts such as News & Media and Academia, denoting validity within the legal system. While synonyms like "legally accurate" or "lawful" may be used, it's important to remember that "legally correct" doesn't always equate to "ethically correct". Ensure to consider both legal and ethical perspectives when using this phrase, and avoid assuming automatic moral righteousness from legal compliance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legally accurate

Focuses on the precision and correctness of the legal aspect.

lawful

Emphasizes adherence to established laws and regulations.

legitimate

Highlights the validity and recognition under the law.

licit

Stresses the permission or authorization granted by law.

within the law

Indicates compliance and operation within legal boundaries.

legally permissible

Highlights that something is allowed by law.

according to law

Specifies that actions or decisions align with legal standards.

in compliance with the law

Emphasizes the act of following legal requirements.

legally sound

Implies a strong and defensible legal basis.

statutorily compliant

Highlights compliance with specific statutes or regulations.

FAQs

How can I use "legally correct" in a sentence?

You can use "legally correct" to describe actions, documents, or decisions that comply with the law. For example, "The contract was deemed legally correct by the attorney."

What are some alternatives to "legally correct"?

You can use alternatives like "legally accurate", "lawful", or "legitimate" depending on the context.

Is it always sufficient for something to be "legally correct"?

While being "legally correct" ensures compliance with the law, it doesn't guarantee that an action is ethical or fair. Consider both legal and moral implications.

What is the difference between "legally correct" and "technically correct"?

"Legally correct" refers to compliance with laws, whereas "technically correct" means something is accurate in a narrow, literal sense, but might be misleading or incomplete in practice.