What does illicit mean?
What does illicit mean
Pronunciation
/ɪˈlɪsɪt/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Forbidden by law, rules, or social norms; unlawful or unethical.
Examples
- The company was fined for engaging in illicit activities.
- Illicit drugs are a major concern for law enforcement agencies.
Synonyms
- Illegal
- Unlawful
- Forbidden
Antonyms
- Legal
- Lawful
- Permitted
Additional Information
In many cases, illicit activities are carried out in secret, making it difficult for authorities to detect and prosecute them. However, law enforcement agencies and governments are working to combat illicit activities and bring those responsible to justice.
Etymology
The word “illicit” comes from the Latin “illicitus,” meaning “not allowed” or “unlawful.”
Usage Notes
When using the word “illicit,” be sure to use it in the correct context. It is often used to describe activities that are illegal or unethical, but it can also be used to describe something that is simply not approved or accepted.
Cultural References
The term “illicit” has been used in popular culture to describe a range of activities, from drug use to extramarital affairs.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Illicit affair
- Illicit substance
Related Words or Phrases
- Illegal
- Unlawful
- Forbidden
Collocations
- Illicit activities
- Illicit substances
- Illicit relationships
Frequency of Use
The word “illicit” is commonly used in formal and informal writing, including news articles, academic papers, and social media posts.
Common Misspellings
- Illict
- Illiscit
- Ilicit