mindmap root((合法)) lawful may apply to conformity with law of any sort, such as natural, divine, common, or canon: the ~ sovereign. legal applies to what is sanctioned by law or in conformity with the law, especially as it is written or administered by the courts: ~ residents of the state. legitimate may apply to a legal right or status but also, in extended use, to a right or status supported by tradition, custom, or accepted standards: a perfectly ~ question about finances. licit applies to a strict conformity to the provisions of the law and applies especially to what is regulated by law: the ~ use of the drug by hospitals.