Words / C1

li-JIT-im-uh-see/lɪˈdʒɪtɪməsi/

Legitimacy is the quality of being accepted as rightful — legal, fair, or properly authorised: the election’s legitimacy. Legality is only “is it lawful?”; legitimacy includes public acceptance. Validity is closer for arguments and tickets. Legitimate is the adjective; the authorities is a different word. In speech, whether people accept it as fair is the paraphrase.

Meaning

The quality of being legal, fair, or accepted as valid.

Examples

• “The election’s legitimacy was questioned.”
• “Winning the vote did not automatically confer legitimacy.”
• “Critics questioned the legitimacy of a rule made without consultation.”

Good to know

legitimacy of a decision/election. Broader than legality. Adjective: legitimate. Everyday: rightful / accepted as fair.

Near in meaning

validity

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