legally possible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "legally possible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing actions or situations that are permitted by law. Example: "The contract must be structured in a way that is legally possible to ensure its enforceability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's only recently become legally possible and, based on a briefing we had with a legal expert, it seems pretty complicated, a tangle of French bureaucracy.

Huffington Post

Legal experts have assured The 3 Million that such a ringfencing is legally possible.

The Guardian

Technically, this is legally possible.

The New York Times

You try everything legally possible.

The Guardian - Film

When it became legally possible to marry, Davies was hesitant.

The Guardian

Would that be acceptable or, simply, legally possible?

The Guardian

All of this would not be legally possible with DMCA restrictions in place.

Stanford University

So, for Saor Éire and others, deproscription is legally possible but problematic: who would apply?

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Murphy, who is not related to Ms. Murphy, agreed that the theory was "legally possible".

The New York Times

At the time, Soros said that "the ends justify any means legally possible".

The New Yorker

In the meantime, it is unclear whether any deal would be legally possible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing potential actions, use "legally possible" to clarify that the action is not only feasible but also complies with the law. For instance, "Implementing this strategy is technically challenging, but it is also legally possible."

Common error

Do not assume that because something is "legally possible", it is also ethically sound. Always consider the ethical implications alongside legal compliance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "legally possible" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that something is within the bounds of what the law allows. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct and usable phrase. The examples show it modifying actions, options, or procedures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

4%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "legally possible" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe actions or situations that are permitted by law, according to Ludwig AI. It appears frequently in news, academic, and business contexts. When using the phrase, remember that legal permissibility doesn't automatically equate to ethical soundness. Consider alternatives like "permissible by law" or "within the law" to add nuance. Finally, as Ludwig indicates, always ensure that legally compliant actions are also ethically and practically viable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legally permissible

A more formal and redundant phrasing of "legally possible".

permissible by law

Explicitly states that the action is allowed by the legal system.

allowed by law

Directly states legal authorization.

within the law

Highlights that actions are conducted inside the boundaries of legal regulations.

authorized by law

Implies a specific legal authorization has been granted.

according to law

Stresses that actions are in accordance with legal provisions.

lawful

Indicates adherence to the law but lacks the implication of feasibility.

sanctioned by law

Indicates that the law officially approves or endorses the action.

compliant with the law

Emphasizes adherence and conformity to legal standards.

legitimate

Focuses on the validity and justification under the law, not necessarily the practicality.

FAQs

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

You can use "legally possible" to describe actions or options that are permitted by law. For example, "The company explored every avenue that was legally possible to avoid bankruptcy."

What's the difference between "legally possible" and "ethically sound"?

"Legally possible" means something is permitted by law, while "ethically sound" means it aligns with moral principles. An action can be legally permissible but still raise ethical concerns.

What are some alternatives to using "legally possible"?

Alternatives include "permissible by law", "within the law", or "legally permissible", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always enough for a course of action to be "legally possible"?

No, just because something is "legally possible" doesn't mean it's the best course of action. It's also important to consider ethical, social, and practical implications.