unconstitutionally

Unconstitutionally is the adverb form of unconstitutional, describing something done in a manner that violates or is invalid under a constitution. It is predominantly used in legal contexts to characterize laws, executive actions, regulations, or government procedures that exceed or ignore constitutional limits.

In many jurisdictions, a claim that a measure is unconstitutional is pursued through judicial review. Courts examine whether the action infringes constitutional rights, exceeds the powers granted to government branches, or fails to meet due process or equal protection requirements. Phrases such as unconstitutionally vague or unconstitutionally overbroad are common when a law or rule is found to fail to provide definite standards or to threaten protected rights.

Etymology and form: the word is formed from constitutional plus the prefix un- and the adverb suffix -ly. It is widely used in legal and academic writing as a precise modifier of actions or laws.

Limitations: the designation of unconstitutionality depends on the jurisdiction and current constitutional interpretation and can change through judicial decisions or constitutional amendments. The term represents a legal conclusion, and in many legal systems it can be challenged and reversed on appeal.