Illegitimately

The term "illegitimately" refers to something that is done or exists in a manner that violates accepted rules, standards, or legal definitions. It implies a lack of proper authority, justification, or legitimacy. The concept is often used in contexts where actions, claims, or entities are considered invalid or unauthorized by established norms, laws, or conventions.

In legal contexts, "illegitimately" may describe actions or documents that do not meet legal requirements. For example, a contract signed without proper consent or a will executed without following legal formalities could be considered illegitimate. Similarly, a child born outside of marriage may be referred to as "illegitimate" in historical or legal contexts, though modern terminology often prefers terms like "born out of wedlock" or "unmarried parents."

In broader usage, the term can apply to any situation where something is not properly authorized or justified. For instance, an election result might be deemed illegitimate if it violates democratic principles or procedural rules. Similarly, a claim to authority or ownership may be considered illegitimate if it lacks proper evidence or legal standing.

The term carries moral or ethical implications, suggesting that the action or entity in question is flawed or unacceptable. However, its application depends on the context and the standards being referenced. While "illegitimate" is often used critically, it is a neutral descriptor when applied objectively to describe violations of established rules.