Legitimní

Legitimní is a Czech adjective meaning lawful, valid, rightful, or authorized. It describes status, claims, or actions that are recognised as acceptable by law, by social norms, or by official rules. In legal and political contexts, something legitimate is supported by formal rules or authorities; in everyday use it can also denote something genuine or authentic.

Etymology and linguistic notes: legitimní derives from Latin legitimus, through French légitime, and into Czech as a term for what is in accord with law or accepted norm. The word is closely related to the noun legitimacy (legitimita) and the process verb legitimovat, meaning to legitimize. The noun legitimace can refer to the act of legitimizing or, in some contexts, to a document that proves someone’s identity or entitlement.

Usage and contexts: Legitimate is commonly placed with legal status, such as legitimate business (legitimní podnik), legitimate ownership, or legitimate authority. It also appears in social and ethical contexts, for example legitimate interests or a legitimate claim (legitimní nárok). In family law, traditional distinctions exist between legitimate and illegitimate children, though modern usage emphasizes equal rights and status rather than moral judgments.

Related terms and contrasts: legiti mation (legitimace), legitimacy (legitimita), and legitimate (legitimovat as a verb) are core relatives. The opposite notions include illegitimate or illegální in the sense of illegal or not authorized, as well as phrases describing non-legitimate or unauthorized claims, actions, or powers.

See also: legitimacy, legitimacy in law, legitimate authority, illegality, legitimace.