LICIT Synonyms: 47 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'licit' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of licit are lawful , legal , and legitimate . While all these words mean "being in accordance with law," licit applies to a strict conformity to the provisions of the law and applies especially to what is regulated by law. // the licit use of drugs by doctors

Q: When is it sensible to use 'lawful' instead of 'licit'?

The words lawful and licit can be used in similar contexts, but lawful may apply to conformity with law of any sort (such as natural, divine, common, or canon). // the lawful sovereign

Q: In what contexts can 'legal' take the place of 'licit'?

While in some cases nearly identical to licit , legal applies to what is sanctioned by law or in conformity with the law, especially as it is written or administered by the courts. // legal residents of the state

Q: Where would 'legitimate' be a reasonable alternative to 'licit'?

Although the words legitimate and licit have much in common, 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 legitimate question about taxes

licit

adjective

ˈli-sət

Definition of licit

as in legitimate

permitted by law law enforcement agencies are demanding stricter regulation of the sale of licit medications that can later be used in the home manufacture of illicit drugs

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word licit different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of licit are lawful, legal, and legitimate. While all these words mean "being in accordance with law," licit applies to a strict conformity to the provisions of the law and applies especially to what is regulated by law.

the licit use of drugs by doctors

When is it sensible to use lawful instead of licit?

The words lawful and licit can be used in similar contexts, but lawful may apply to conformity with law of any sort (such as natural, divine, common, or canon).

the lawful sovereign

In what contexts can legal take the place of licit?

While in some cases nearly identical to licit, legal applies to what is sanctioned by law or in conformity with the law, especially as it is written or administered by the courts.

legal residents of the state

Where would legitimate be a reasonable alternative to licit?

Although the words legitimate and licit have much in common, 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 legitimate question about taxes

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of licit Saulnier’s script suggests his thorough research into the fine points of police procedure, licit and illicit, and likewise into the intricacies of judicial authority and hand-to-hand combat (including minutiae about firearms and ammunition). —Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 13 Sep. 2024 In Guerrero, more than 65% live in poverty, and around 40 criminal groups operate in different licit and illicit activities, according to the International Crisis Group. —Karol Suárez, The Courier-Journal, 25 Apr. 2024 Farmers upstate were growing fields of licit marijuana! —Jia Tolentino, The New Yorker, 19 Feb. 2024

Recent Examples of Synonyms for licit

Adjective

And Detroit has long looked like a legitimate candidate.

— Hailey Salvian, The Athletic, 17 Mar. 2025
In addition to gaining access to victims' networks, the group is also hijacking legitimate accounts, including those of healthcare organizations, the blog post says.

— Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 17 Mar. 2025