ilegal in 30 Seconds
- Ilegal means against the law.
- It describes something forbidden by rules.
- Used for actions with legal consequences.
- Opposite of 'legal'.
The Portuguese word ilegal is an adjective that directly translates to 'illegal' in English. It's used to describe something that is contrary to or forbidden by law. This can range from minor infractions to serious criminal offenses. Understanding ilegal is crucial for comprehending discussions about rules, regulations, and societal norms in Portuguese-speaking countries.
- Core Meaning
- Forbidden by law; not permitted.
- Contexts
- Legal proceedings, news reports, discussions about rules and regulations, everyday situations where something is against the rules.
A entrada sem bilhete é ilegal.
When you encounter ilegal, think of it as the direct opposite of 'legal' or 'lawful'. It signifies a breach of established rules or statutes. For instance, parking in a no-parking zone is an ilegal act. Similarly, engaging in activities that are prohibited by the government, such as certain types of trade or construction, would be described as ilegal.
É ilegal vender produtos falsificados.
The term is frequently used in news reports about crime, government regulations, and policy discussions. You might hear it in relation to immigration, environmental protection, business practices, or personal conduct. For example, a news headline might read: 'Descoberta rede de contrabando ilegal' (Illegal smuggling network discovered).
- Usage Examples
- Emprego ilegal: Working without the proper permits or authorization.
- Atividade ilegal: Any action that violates the law.
- Construção ilegal: Building something without the necessary permits or in violation of zoning laws.
Understanding ilegal is fundamental for anyone engaging with Portuguese media or legal contexts. It's a direct and unambiguous term that clearly communicates a violation of established laws.
Using ilegal correctly in sentences is straightforward once you understand its meaning. As an adjective, it typically follows the noun it modifies or can be used predicatively after a linking verb like 'ser' (to be). The key is to ensure that the context clearly indicates a violation of law or rules.
Placement in Sentences
1. After the Noun: This is the most common position, directly describing the noun.
Compraram um carro ilegal.
2. After 'Ser' (to be) or 'Estar' (to be): Used to state that something *is* illegal.
Essa prática é ilegal.
Agreement
Like most Portuguese adjectives, ilegal agrees in gender and number with the noun it describes. However, ilegal is one of those adjectives that does not change for gender. It only changes for number.
- Singular
- ilegal (masculine/feminine)
- Plural
- ilegais (masculine/feminine)
Os documentos eram ilegais.
Common Sentence Structures
Here are some common ways to construct sentences with ilegal:
- Subject + Ser + Ilegal: To state that a subject is illegal.
Fumar aqui é ilegal.
Smoking here is illegal. - Noun + Ser + Ilegal: Similar to the above, but with a specific noun.
A venda de álcool para menores é ilegal.
The sale of alcohol to minors is illegal. - Subject + Verb + Object + Ilegal: When the adjective modifies the object.
A polícia encontrou mercadorias ilegais.
The police found illegal goods. - Ter + Noun + Ilegal: To indicate possession of something illegal.
Ele foi pego com documentos ilegais.
He was caught with illegal documents.
The word ilegal is quite common in Portuguese and you'll hear it in various real-life situations, especially when discussing societal rules, news, and official matters. Its prevalence means that grasping its usage is key to understanding many aspects of Portuguese culture and discourse.
News and Media
News broadcasts, newspapers, and online articles frequently use ilegal when reporting on crime, law enforcement, and government actions. You'll see headlines and read stories about:
- Crime: 'Tráfico de drogas ilegal', 'Roubo ilegal de carros', 'Assassinato ilegal'.
- Government Regulations: 'Construção ilegal de edifícios', 'Pesca ilegal', 'Desmatamento ilegal'.
- Legal Proceedings: 'Decisão ilegal do tribunal', 'Prisão ilegal'.
A polícia combate o comércio ilegal.
Legal and Official Contexts
In more formal settings, such as courtrooms, government offices, or legal documents, ilegal is used precisely to denote actions or situations that are against the law. You might hear lawyers discussing 'provas ilegais' (illegal evidence) or citizens being warned about 'práticas ilegais' (illegal practices).
Everyday Conversations
Even in casual conversations, ilegal can pop up:
- When discussing parking tickets: 'Estacionar aqui é ilegal.' (Parking here is illegal.)
- When talking about breaking minor rules: 'Fumar dentro do prédio é ilegal.' (Smoking inside the building is illegal.)
- When referring to something that is generally frowned upon or against a commonly understood rule: 'Essa piada é ilegal!' (That joke is inappropriate/offensive! - used hyperbolically sometimes).
A entrada no parque depois do horário é ilegal.
Discussions about Rights and Freedoms
The term can also be used when discussing human rights or civil liberties, for example, 'prisão ilegal' (illegal detention) or 'censura ilegal' (illegal censorship).
- Common Scenarios
- Watching news reports about police operations.
- Reading about environmental issues like deforestation.
- Hearing discussions about traffic violations or parking rules.
- Understanding legal warnings or notices.
By familiarizing yourself with these contexts, you'll be better equipped to understand and use ilegal naturally in your Portuguese conversations and comprehension.
While ilegal is a relatively straightforward word, learners can sometimes make mistakes. These often stem from direct translation issues, confusion with similar-sounding words, or incorrect grammatical agreement. Being aware of these common pitfalls can help you avoid them.
1. Direct Translation Issues
English speakers might sometimes try to use 'illegal' in contexts where a more nuanced Portuguese word would be better, or vice-versa. However, ilegal is a very direct equivalent, so this is less common than with other words. The main issue is overusing it for things that are just 'wrong' or 'bad' but not strictly against the law.
Mistake: Ele fez algo ilegal (para me irritar).
Correction: If the action wasn't against the law, but just annoying or impolite, other words like 'errado' (wrong), 'inconveniente' (inconvenient), or 'desagradável' (unpleasant) would be more appropriate. Ilegal implies a legal transgression.
2. Grammatical Agreement Errors
As mentioned, ilegal is an adjective that needs to agree in number with the noun it modifies. The singular form is ilegal, and the plural is ilegais. Forgetting to make it plural is a common mistake.
Mistake: Os atos eram ilegal.
Correction: Os atos eram ilegais.
Similarly, when used with 'ser', if the subject is plural, the adjective should reflect that.
Mistake: As atividades são ilegal.
Correction: As atividades são ilegais.
3. Confusing with Similar Words
While not extremely common, learners might confuse ilegal with words that sound similar or have related meanings but are not identical. For instance, 'ilógico' (illogical) or 'imoral' (immoral). While illegal actions can often be illogical or immoral, these terms have distinct meanings.
Mistake: A decisão foi ilegal (porque não fazia sentido).
Correction: A decisão foi ilógica (ou sem sentido).
4. Overgeneralization
Sometimes, learners might use ilegal to describe something that is simply forbidden by a personal rule or a social convention, rather than a formal law. For example, saying 'É ilegal comer na cama' (It's illegal to eat in bed) is usually an exaggeration, unless there's a specific rule in place.
Correction: It's better to say 'Não é permitido comer na cama' (It's not allowed to eat in bed) or 'Não se deve comer na cama' (One shouldn't eat in bed) in such cases.
By paying attention to grammatical agreement and the precise meaning of ilegal, you can use this word confidently and accurately.
While ilegal is the most direct and common term for 'illegal', Portuguese offers several other words and phrases that can be used depending on the specific nuance and context. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and help you express yourself more precisely.
Synonyms and Near-Synonyms
- Proibido
- Meaning: Forbidden, banned.
- Usage: This is a very common alternative, often used interchangeably with ilegal, but it can also refer to things that are forbidden by rules or social norms, not just laws. For example, 'fumar é proibido' (smoking is forbidden) can be a rule in a building, which might also be ilegal if it violates public health laws.
- Example: 'O acesso a esta área é proibido sem autorização.' (Access to this area is forbidden without authorization.)
- Ilícito
- Meaning: Unlawful, illicit.
- Usage: This word is very close in meaning to ilegal and is often used in more formal or legal contexts. It emphasizes the unlawful nature of an act.
- Example: 'Ele foi detido por atividades ilícitas.' (He was detained for illicit activities.)
- Contrário à lei
- Meaning: Contrary to the law.
- Usage: This is a descriptive phrase that clearly states something is against the law. It's less of a single word and more of a phrase, often used for clarity or emphasis.
- Example: 'A ação tomada pelo governo foi contrária à lei.' (The action taken by the government was contrary to the law.)
Words with Related Meanings (but not direct synonyms)
- Ilegalidade
- Meaning: Illegality (noun).
- Usage: This is the noun form, referring to the state or quality of being illegal. It's not an adjective like ilegal.
- Example: 'A polícia investiga a ilegalidade da construção.' (The police are investigating the illegality of the construction.)
- Ilicitude
- Meaning: Unlawfulness (noun).
- Usage: Similar to ilegalidade, this noun refers to the state of being unlawful. It's derived from ilícito.
- Example: 'A prova foi considerada de ilicitude duvidosa.' (The evidence was considered of doubtful unlawfulness.)
- Irregular
- Meaning: Irregular, not in accordance with rules.
- Usage: This word is broader than ilegal. Something irregular might not be strictly against the law but may violate established procedures, standards, or customs. It suggests a deviation from the norm or a specific set of rules, but not necessarily a criminal offense.
- Example: 'O procedimento foi irregular, mas não criminoso.' (The procedure was irregular, but not criminal.)
Choosing the Right Word
* Use ilegal for direct violations of established laws.
* Use proibido for things that are forbidden, whether by law, rule, or custom.
* Use ilícito in more formal or legal contexts to emphasize the unlawful nature.
* Use contrário à lei for a more explicit statement that something breaks the law.
* Use irregular for deviations from rules or norms that may not be strictly illegal.
By understanding these distinctions, you can communicate more effectively in Portuguese.
How Formal Is It?
""
""
""
""
Fun Fact
The prefix 'in-' in Latin often signifies negation. When attached to words starting with 'l', it sometimes changes to 'il-' for ease of pronunciation, as seen in 'ilegal' (from 'inlegal') and 'ilógico' (from 'inlogic').
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'i' as in 'it' instead of 'ee'.
- Incorrect stress placement, e.g., on the first or third syllable.
- Mispronouncing the 'g' sound, making it soft like 'j'.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'ilegal' is quite common in news and general text. Understanding its direct meaning makes reading comprehension straightforward when this word appears. Its frequency at A2 level ensures it's encountered early.
As an adjective, 'ilegal' is relatively easy to use in writing, especially when following 'ser' or modifying a noun. The main point to remember is the plural form 'ilegais'.
Producing the word 'ilegal' is simple. The challenge in speaking is using it accurately in contexts where it truly implies a legal violation, rather than just something that is 'wrong' or 'forbidden' by social norms.
The pronunciation is not particularly difficult, and the word is frequently used in news and media, making it easy to recognize when heard.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective Agreement
The adjective 'ilegal' must agree in number with the noun it modifies. Singular: 'o ato ilegal'. Plural: 'os atos ilegais'.
Use of 'Ser' with Adjectives
'Ser' is used to describe a permanent state or characteristic. 'Esta prática é ilegal.' (This practice is illegal.)
Infinitives after 'Ser + Adjective'
When expressing that an action is illegal, use 'Ser + ilegal + infinitive verb'. 'É ilegal dirigir sem carteira.' (It is illegal to drive without a license.)
Pluralization of Adjectives ending in 'l'
Adjectives ending in 'l' usually change 'l' to 'is' in the plural. 'ilegal' becomes 'ilegais'.
Using 'Contra' with Nouns
The phrase 'contra a lei' (against the law) is a common alternative to 'ilegal'. 'Isso é contra a lei.' (This is against the law.)
Examples by Level
Isso é proibido.
This is forbidden.
Simple statement using 'proibido'.
Não pode fazer isso.
You cannot do that.
Using 'não pode' to indicate prohibition.
É contra as regras.
It is against the rules.
Simple phrase indicating a rule violation.
Isso não é permitido.
This is not permitted.
Using 'não permitido' for prohibition.
A porta está fechada.
The door is closed.
Simple description of a closed door, implying restricted access.
Você precisa de um passe.
You need a pass.
Indicates a requirement for entry.
Não entre aqui.
Do not enter here.
Direct command not to enter.
O sinal está vermelho.
The light is red.
Indicates a stop signal.
A venda de álcool para menores é ilegal.
The sale of alcohol to minors is illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' as a predicate adjective after 'é'.
É ilegal estacionar neste local.
It is illegal to park in this spot.
Uses 'ilegal' with the infinitive verb 'estacionar'.
Os documentos que ele apresentou eram ilegais.
The documents he presented were illegal.
Uses the plural form 'ilegais' agreeing with 'documentos'.
Não podemos fazer isso, é contra a lei.
We cannot do that, it is against the law.
Uses the phrase 'contra a lei' as an alternative to 'ilegal'.
A entrada sem bilhete é proibida.
Entry without a ticket is forbidden.
Uses 'proibida' (feminine form) agreeing with 'entrada'.
Essa atividade é considerada ilegal.
This activity is considered illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' with the verb 'considerar'.
Eles foram multados por uma infração ilegal.
They were fined for an illegal infraction.
Uses 'ilegal' to modify 'infração'.
É importante respeitar as leis para não cometer atos ilegais.
It is important to respect the laws to not commit illegal acts.
Uses 'ilegais' (plural) modifying 'atos'.
O governo implementou novas medidas para combater a pesca ilegal.
The government implemented new measures to combat illegal fishing.
Uses 'ilegal' to modify 'pesca' in a formal context.
Construir sem licença é uma prática ilegal que pode resultar em multas pesadas.
Building without a license is an illegal practice that can result in heavy fines.
Uses 'ilegal' to describe 'prática' and discusses consequences.
A posse de certos produtos químicos é estritamente ilegal.
The possession of certain chemical products is strictly illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' with an adverb ('estritamente') for emphasis.
Os advogados argumentaram que a evidência apresentada era ilegal.
The lawyers argued that the evidence presented was illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' in a legal argument context.
É ilegal usar informações confidenciais para benefício pessoal.
It is illegal to use confidential information for personal gain.
Uses 'ilegal' with the infinitive 'usar' in a professional context.
A polícia desmantelou uma rede de contrabando ilegal.
The police dismantled an illegal smuggling network.
Uses 'ilegal' to describe 'rede de contrabando'.
O transporte de animais selvagens sem permissão é considerado ilegal na maioria dos países.
The transportation of wild animals without permission is considered illegal in most countries.
Uses 'ilegal' in a broader, international context.
A emissão de gases poluentes acima do limite permitido é ilegal.
The emission of polluting gases above the permitted limit is illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' in an environmental regulation context.
A decisão judicial foi considerada ilegal por violar princípios constitucionais.
The judicial decision was considered illegal for violating constitutional principles.
Uses 'ilegal' with a causal clause ('por violar').
O governo enfrenta críticas pela sua abordagem considerada ilegal no tratamento de refugiados.
The government faces criticism for its approach, considered illegal in the treatment of refugees.
Uses 'ilegal' in a political and human rights context.
A exploração de recursos naturais de forma ilegal pode ter consequências devastadoras para o ecossistema.
The illegal exploitation of natural resources can have devastating consequences for the ecosystem.
Uses 'ilegal' to modify 'exploração' in an environmental context.
O uso de software pirata é ilegal e pode expor os utilizadores a riscos de segurança.
The use of pirated software is illegal and can expose users to security risks.
Uses 'ilegal' in a technological and legal context.
As autoridades estão a investigar alegações de lavagem de dinheiro ilegal.
The authorities are investigating allegations of illegal money laundering.
Uses 'ilegal' to describe 'lavagem de dinheiro'.
O contrato foi anulado por conter cláusulas consideradas ilegais.
The contract was annulled for containing clauses considered illegal.
Uses 'ilegais' (plural) to modify 'cláusulas' in a legal document context.
A promoção de produtos com alegações de saúde falsas é ilegal e enganosa.
The promotion of products with false health claims is illegal and misleading.
Uses 'ilegal' and 'enganosa' (misleading) to describe a promotion.
O descarte ilegal de resíduos tóxicos representa um grave perigo para o meio ambiente e a saúde pública.
The illegal disposal of toxic waste represents a serious danger to the environment and public health.
Uses 'ilegal' to modify 'descarte de resíduos tóxicos'.
A jurisprudência recente tem reinterpretado o conceito de atividade ilegal em casos de desobediência civil.
Recent jurisprudence has reinterpreted the concept of illegal activity in cases of civil disobedience.
Uses 'ilegal' in a sophisticated legal and philosophical context.
A proliferação de notícias falsas e campanhas de desinformação online levanta questões sobre a sua classificação como atividade ilegal.
The proliferation of fake news and online disinformation campaigns raises questions about their classification as illegal activity.
Discusses the potential for online activities to be deemed 'ilegal'.
O abuso de poder por parte de funcionários públicos pode configurar crime de improbidade administrativa, tornando seus atos ilegais.
The abuse of power by public officials can constitute administrative misconduct, rendering their actions illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' to describe the outcome of an abuse of power.
A legislação sobre direitos autorais busca coibir a reprodução ilegal de obras intelectuais.
Copyright legislation seeks to prevent the illegal reproduction of intellectual works.
Uses 'ilegal' in the context of intellectual property law.
O desenvolvimento de tecnologias de vigilância levanta preocupações sobre a potencial utilização ilegal de dados pessoais.
The development of surveillance technologies raises concerns about the potential illegal use of personal data.
Discusses the 'ilegal' use of technology and data.
A evasão fiscal, por meio de esquemas complexos, é uma forma de fraude considerada ilegal.
Tax evasion, through complex schemes, is a form of fraud considered illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' to classify 'evasão fiscal' (tax evasion).
A investigação forense procurou determinar se a morte foi acidental ou resultado de uma ação ilegal.
The forensic investigation sought to determine if the death was accidental or the result of an illegal action.
Uses 'ilegal' to contrast with 'acidental' in a criminal investigation.
A manipulação do mercado financeiro por informação privilegiada é uma prática ilegal que prejudica a confiança dos investidores.
The manipulation of the financial market through insider information is an illegal practice that harms investor confidence.
Uses 'ilegal' to describe market manipulation.
A extraterritorialidade da lei penal permite que a jurisdição portuguesa seja aplicada a atos ilegais cometidos por cidadãos nacionais no estrangeiro.
The extraterritoriality of criminal law allows Portuguese jurisdiction to be applied to illegal acts committed by national citizens abroad.
Uses 'ilegais' in a complex international legal concept.
A complexidade da legislação tributária muitas vezes cria zonas cinzentas onde a distinção entre otimização fiscal e evasão ilegal se torna tênue.
The complexity of tax legislation often creates grey areas where the distinction between tax optimization and illegal evasion becomes tenuous.
Uses 'ilegal' in a nuanced discussion of tax law and ethics.
A criminalização de certas condutas online, como o cyberbullying, reflete a adaptação do ordenamento jurídico a novas formas de expressão e interação consideradas ilegais.
The criminalization of certain online behaviors, such as cyberbullying, reflects the adaptation of the legal system to new forms of expression and interaction considered illegal.
Discusses the evolution of law regarding 'ilegal' online conduct.
A teoria do risco criado, em direito civil, pode imputar responsabilidade por danos decorrentes de atividades que, embora não intencionalmente ilegais, geram perigo.
The theory of created risk, in civil law, can assign responsibility for damages arising from activities that, although not intentionally illegal, generate danger.
Uses 'ilegais' in a sophisticated legal theory context, contrasting intent.
A arbitragem internacional, quando não pautada pela boa-fé, pode ser questionada quanto à sua legalidade ou configurada como um meio ilegal de resolução de litígios.
International arbitration, when not guided by good faith, can be questioned regarding its legality or configured as an illegal means of dispute resolution.
Discusses the potential for 'ilegal' arbitration practices.
A proteção de dados pessoais, em conformidade com o RGPD, exige que qualquer tratamento de informação seja legal e transparente, sob pena de sanções por violação ilegal.
The protection of personal data, in compliance with GDPR, requires that any information processing be legal and transparent, under penalty of sanctions for illegal violation.
Uses 'ilegal' in the context of data protection regulations.
A doutrina jurídica debate a extensão da responsabilidade penal objetiva em casos de atividades perigosas, onde a prova de dolo pode ser dispensada para configurar o ato como ilegal.
Legal doctrine debates the extent of objective criminal liability in cases of dangerous activities, where proof of intent may be waived to classify the act as illegal.
Uses 'ilegal' in a highly academic legal discussion.
A análise do consentimento informado em procedimentos médicos complexos é crucial para determinar se houve negligência ou uma ação ilegal por parte dos profissionais de saúde.
The analysis of informed consent in complex medical procedures is crucial to determine if there was negligence or an illegal action by healthcare professionals.
Uses 'ilegal' in a medical ethics and malpractice context.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
'Ilógico' means illogical or doesn't make sense. While an illegal act might be illogical, the words have different meanings. 'Ilegal' refers to the law, while 'ilógico' refers to reason.
'Imoral' means morally wrong. Something illegal is often immoral, but not all immoral actions are illegal, and some legal actions might be considered immoral by some.
'Irregular' means not following rules or standards, but it doesn't necessarily mean against the law. An action can be irregular without being illegal.
Idioms & Expressions
— To enter into illegality; to start doing something illegal.
Se ele continuar assim, vai acabar por entrar na ilegalidade.
Neutral— To turn a blind eye to something illegal; to ignore an illegal act.
Não podemos fazer vista grossa para a corrupção ilegal.
Informal— To play dirty; to act unfairly or illegally.
Ele joga sujo para conseguir o que quer, é ilegal.
Informal— To disregard or break the law; to act above the law.
Ele pensa que pode passar por cima da lei, mas é ilegal.
Neutral— To have no scruples; to be willing to do anything, including illegal things, to achieve a goal.
Ele não tem escrúpulos e faz tudo o que é ilegal.
Neutral— To act outside the law; to operate illegally.
Muitos negócios ilegais agem à margem da lei.
Formal— To be caught red-handed; to be caught in the act of doing something illegal.
Ele foi pego em flagrante a cometer um ato ilegal.
Neutral— To charge exorbitant prices; often implies an illegal or unethical practice.
Cobrar preços abusivos é ilegal em tempos de crise.
Neutral— To find an illegal shortcut or workaround.
Ele tentou dar um jeitinho ilegal para evitar a multa.
Informal— To be an accomplice to an illegal crime.
Ajudar um criminoso é ser cúmplice de um crime ilegal.
FormalEasily Confused
Both 'ilegal' and 'proibido' indicate something that is not allowed.
'Proibido' means forbidden and can apply to rules, social norms, or laws. 'Ilegal' specifically means forbidden by law. Therefore, all illegal things are 'proibidas', but not all 'proibidas' things are 'ilegais'. For example, it might be 'proibido' to sing loudly at night in a residential area, but not necessarily 'ilegal' unless it violates a specific ordinance.
Fumar é proibido neste restaurante (regra), mas o contrabando é ilegal (contra a lei).
Both 'ilegal' and 'ilícito' relate to unlawfulness and are often used in formal or legal contexts.
'Ilegal' is a more general term for something against the law. 'Ilícito' is very similar and often interchangeable, but it can sometimes carry a slightly stronger connotation of being morally reprehensible or illicit in a broader sense, beyond just breaking a specific statute. In many legal contexts, they are synonymous.
A apreensão de bens foi ilegal. A atividade praticada era ilícita.
Both 'ilegal' and 'irregular' suggest a deviation from a norm or rule.
'Ilegal' means it breaks a law. 'Irregular' means it doesn't follow a specific procedure, standard, or rule, but it might not be against a formal law. For instance, submitting a document with a missing signature is 'irregular', but selling drugs is 'ilegal'.
O processo administrativo foi irregular, mas a fraude descoberta era ilegal.
This phrase is a direct description of what 'ilegal' means.
'Ilegal' is a single adjective. 'Contra a lei' is a phrase meaning 'against the law'. They are often used interchangeably, but 'ilegal' is more concise. 'Contra a lei' can sometimes be used for emphasis or in more descriptive sentences.
Essa ação é ilegal. / Essa ação é contra a lei.
Activities described as 'clandestino' are often illegal.
'Clandestino' means secret or hidden, usually because it is unauthorized or illegal. The focus is on the secrecy. Something can be illegal without being clandestine (e.g., a speeding ticket), and something clandestine might not always be strictly illegal (e.g., a surprise party).
O bar funcionava de forma clandestina, vendendo bebidas ilegais.
Sentence Patterns
Isso é proibido.
Isso é proibido.
É ilegal + infinitive.
É ilegal fumar aqui.
[Noun] é ilegal.
A entrada é ilegal.
Ser + [plural noun] + ilegais.
Os documentos eram ilegais.
Cometer + [noun phrase] + ilegal.
Cometer um ato ilegal.
Considerado ilegal + por + [reason/gerund].
Considerado ilegal por violar leis.
A [noun] de [activity] ilegal.
A exploração de recursos ilegal.
Configurar como + [noun phrase] + ilegal.
Configurar como crime ilegal.
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High
-
Forgetting the plural form.
→
Os atos eram ilegais.
The adjective 'ilegal' must agree in number with the noun. When referring to multiple acts, it becomes 'ilegais'. Mistake: 'Os atos eram ilegal.'
-
Using 'ilegal' for non-legal prohibitions.
→
É proibido comer na cama.
If something is against a household rule or social norm but not against the law, 'proibido' (forbidden) or 'errado' (wrong) is more appropriate than 'ilegal'. Mistake: 'É ilegal comer na cama.'
-
Incorrect stress placement.
→
i-LE-gal
The stress falls on the second syllable. Placing stress on the first or third syllable can make the word difficult to understand. Common mistake: 'I-le-gal' or 'I-le-gal'.
-
Confusing 'ilegal' with 'ilógico'.
→
A decisão foi ilógica.
'Ilegal' means against the law. 'Ilógico' means not logical or nonsensical. While illegal actions can sometimes be illogical, they are distinct concepts. Mistake: 'A decisão foi ilegal (porque não fazia sentido).'
-
Using 'ilegal' for gendered agreement.
→
A prática ilegal.
'Ilegal' is an adjective that does not change for gender. It remains 'ilegal' for both masculine and feminine nouns. Mistake: 'A prática ilegala.'
Tips
Stress Matters
Remember that the stress in 'ilegal' falls on the second syllable: i-LE-gal. Practicing this rhythm will make your pronunciation sound more natural to native speakers.
Pluralize Correctly
Don't forget to change 'ilegal' to 'ilegais' when referring to more than one illegal thing or action. For example, 'documentos ilegais' instead of 'documentos ilegal'.
Think Beyond 'Illegal'
Explore synonyms like 'ilícito' (unlawful) and 'proibido' (forbidden) to add nuance to your Portuguese. 'Ilícito' is often used in more formal legal contexts.
Connect to English
The prefix 'i-' in 'ilegal' often signifies negation, similar to 'il-' or 'in-' in English words like 'illegal' and 'inconvenient'. This connection can help you remember its meaning.
Use in Sentences
Actively try to form your own sentences using 'ilegal' in different contexts. This active recall is crucial for solidifying the word in your memory.
News and Media
Listen to Portuguese news or read articles. You'll hear and see 'ilegal' used frequently in reports about crime, regulations, and public affairs.
Predicate Adjective
A very common structure is 'Ser + ilegal'. For example, 'Fumar aqui é ilegal.' (Smoking here is illegal.) This pattern is easy to remember and use.
Antonym Check
Knowing the antonyms like 'legal' (legal) and 'lícito' (lawful) helps reinforce the meaning of 'ilegal' by understanding its opposite.
Avoid Overuse
While 'ilegal' is useful, don't overuse it for things that are simply inconvenient or impolite. Precision in language is key to effective communication.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a judge saying 'No!' to a rule. The 'i' at the beginning sounds like 'eye' - imagine an 'eye' on the law, and if it's 'in' the law, it's legal; if it's 'out' of the law (i-legal), it's illegal.
Visual Association
Picture a red stop sign with a clear 'X' over it, superimposed on a gavel. The 'X' signifies 'not' or 'wrong', and the gavel represents law, so 'X-gavel' or 'i-legal' means against the law.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to think of five actions you might do in your daily life that would be considered 'ilegal' in some context, and write them down in Portuguese using the word 'ilegal'.
Word Origin
The word 'ilegal' comes from the Latin word 'illegalis', which is formed by the prefix 'in-' (meaning 'not') and the word 'legalis' (meaning 'legal', derived from 'lex', meaning 'law').
Original meaning: Not legal; contrary to law.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > PortugueseCultural Context
The term 'ilegal' is a factual descriptor and not inherently offensive. However, it should be used accurately to avoid mischaracterizing situations. Using it to describe minor social faux pas would be an exaggeration and could be perceived as overly harsh or inaccurate.
In English-speaking countries, 'illegal' carries the same meaning of being against the law. The concept is universal, though specific laws and their enforcement vary significantly.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
News and current events
- notícia ilegal
- crime ilegal
- polícia combate o ilegal
- investigação ilegal
Legal discussions and warnings
- é ilegal fazer isso
- prática ilegal
- uso ilegal
- consequências ilegais
Everyday rules and prohibitions
- estacionamento ilegal
- entrada ilegal
- proibido e ilegal
- sem permissão legal
Business and commerce
- comércio ilegal
- venda ilegal
- mercadoria ilegal
- trabalho ilegal
Environmental issues
- desmatamento ilegal
- pesca ilegal
- poluição ilegal
- descarte ilegal
Conversation Starters
"What recent news story about an illegal activity caught your attention?"
"Can you think of a time when a rule was broken, and it was considered illegal?"
"What are some common illegal activities in your country?"
"How does the concept of 'illegal' differ from just 'wrong'?"
"What measures do you think are most effective in preventing illegal actions?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a situation where you witnessed or heard about something illegal. What were the circumstances?
Write about the importance of laws and how breaking them can lead to illegal consequences.
Imagine you are a journalist reporting on an illegal operation. What details would you include in your article?
Reflect on a time you learned about a new law or regulation. How did it impact your understanding of what is legal or illegal?
Discuss the role of technology in both enabling and preventing illegal activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe direct translation of 'ilegal' into English is 'illegal'. Both words mean contrary to or forbidden by law.
The plural form of 'ilegal' is 'ilegais'. This is because it's an adjective ending in 'l', and most adjectives ending in 'l' in Portuguese change the 'l' to 'is' in the plural. For example, 'um ato ilegal' (an illegal act) becomes 'atos ilegais' (illegal acts).
'Ilegal' can be used for both minor and serious offenses. For example, parking illegally is 'estacionamento ilegal', which is a minor offense, while murder is also 'ilegal', a very serious crime. The severity is understood from the context.
Generally, no. 'Ilegal' specifically refers to something that violates a law or legal regulation. For actions that are simply 'wrong' in a moral or social sense, other words like 'errado' (wrong), 'inadequado' (inadequate), or 'imoral' (immoral) would be more appropriate.
'Proibido' means forbidden and can be based on rules, social norms, or laws. 'Ilegal' specifically means forbidden by law. So, while all illegal actions are forbidden, not all forbidden actions are necessarily illegal. For example, 'smoking is forbidden in this building' might be a rule, but 'selling illegal drugs' is against the law.
No, 'ilegal' does not change for gender. It is the same for masculine and feminine nouns. It only changes for number, becoming 'ilegais' in the plural.
While you can describe a person's actions as illegal ('um criminoso ilegal' is not common, but 'um ato ilegal' is), it's more common to describe the *actions* or *things* associated with a person as illegal, rather than the person themselves directly. You might say 'Ele cometeu um crime ilegal' (He committed an illegal crime) or 'Ele foi preso por atividades ilegais' (He was arrested for illegal activities).
Common phrases include 'é ilegal' (it is illegal), 'prática ilegal' (illegal practice), 'tráfico ilegal' (illegal trafficking), 'construção ilegal' (illegal construction), and 'cometer um ato ilegal' (to commit an illegal act).
The core meaning of 'ilegal' is consistent across Portuguese-speaking countries. While specific laws and their enforcement vary, the term itself is universally understood to mean 'against the law'.
The most direct antonyms for 'ilegal' are 'legal' (legal) and 'lícito' (lawful/legitimate). 'Permitido' (permitted) and 'autorizado' (authorized) are also related antonyms, meaning allowed or sanctioned.
Test Yourself 10 questions
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Ilegal is a Portuguese adjective meaning 'illegal,' used to describe anything forbidden by law or regulation, signifying a breach of established legal order.
- Ilegal means against the law.
- It describes something forbidden by rules.
- Used for actions with legal consequences.
- Opposite of 'legal'.
Stress Matters
Remember that the stress in 'ilegal' falls on the second syllable: i-LE-gal. Practicing this rhythm will make your pronunciation sound more natural to native speakers.
Pluralize Correctly
Don't forget to change 'ilegal' to 'ilegais' when referring to more than one illegal thing or action. For example, 'documentos ilegais' instead of 'documentos ilegal'.
Context is Key
Use 'ilegal' when you mean strictly against the law. If something is just against the rules of a game or a house, 'proibido' or 'errado' might be better choices.
Think Beyond 'Illegal'
Explore synonyms like 'ilícito' (unlawful) and 'proibido' (forbidden) to add nuance to your Portuguese. 'Ilícito' is often used in more formal legal contexts.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More work words
a curto prazo
A2Over a short period of time; short-term.
à exceção de
B1With the exception of; apart from.
a longo prazo
A2Over a long period of time; long-term.
a não ser que
A2Unless; except if; only if not.
a partir de
A2Starting from; from a certain point in time or place.
a prazo
A2For a period of time; on credit or payment terms.
a tempo inteiro
B1Full-time; working the full number of hours considered normal for a job.
a tempo parcial
B1Part-time; working less than full-time hours.
abdicar
A2To give up, to abdicate; to renounce or relinquish a throne, right, power, or claim.
acessível
B1Available, accessible; easy to approach or use.
Comments (0)
Login to CommentExplore Our Learning Content
Languages
Vocabulary
Phrases
Grammar Rules
We use essential cookies for sign-in, security, and preferences. Optional analytics starts only if you accept.
Install SubLearn
Add to your home screen for a faster, app-like experience
Sign In Create Account
Fastest option
Chat History
No past conversations yet.
SubLearn Assistant
AI-powered support
Would you like to create a support ticket? A human agent will help you.
You've used your free messages
Sign up for unlimited AI chatAI-powered — answers may not always be accurate