When it comes to the English language, small spelling errors can often create confusion. One such example is the confusion between the words “legally” and “legaly.” While they may appear similar, only one of them is correct. In this article, I will explain the correct spelling and usage of the word, providing examples to further clarify the difference.
The correct spelling, without a doubt, is “legally.” This is the adverb form of the adjective “legal,” which means something is in accordance with the law or is authorized by it. The addition of the “-ly” suffix transforms “legal” into “legally,” indicating the manner in which an action is performed or something is done lawfully.
Let’s delve deeper into the examples to illustrate the proper usage of “legally.”
1. “He is legally bound by the terms of the contract.” In this example, “legally” describes the manner in which the person is bound by the contract. It shows that the person is obligated to follow the terms in a manner that is compliant with the law.
2. “The company acted legally when terminating the employee.” Here, “legally” describes how the company terminated the employee in a manner that adhered to employment laws and regulations.
3. “She consulted with a lawyer to ensure she handled the matter legally.” In this case, “legally” indicates the method the person adopted to handle the matter lawfully, seeking advice from a legal professional.
It is important to note that “legaly” is not a correct spelling in standard English. If you were to use it in writing or during a test like the IELTS, it would be considered an error. The correct spelling is “legally,” and it is essential to remember this to convey your ideas accurately.
Confusingly, the incorrect spelling “legaly” may occasionally appear as a typographical error or a misspelling made inadvertently. However, it is crucial to differentiate between a genuine mistake and the correct usage to avoid any misunderstandings.
To sum up, “legally” is the correct spelling of the word that represents acting in accordance with the law or authorized by it. It is an adverb that signifies the manner in which actions are performed lawfully. Remember to use “legally” in your writing and conversations to ensure clarity and accuracy when discussing legal matters.
I hope this explanation clarifies the correct spelling and usage of “legally” for you. If you have any further questions or need more examples, feel free to ask.