adjectiveadverb

rechtswidrig

illegal · unlawful

Nicht erlaubt nach dem Gesetz oder gegen die Regeln des Staates.

The German word "rechtswidrig" is an adjective that means "illegal" or "unlawful". It is composed of "recht" (law or right) and "widrig" (contrary or adverse). Therefore, "rechtswidrig" describes something that is against the law.

Similar words in German include:

  • "illegal" (illegal)
  • "gesetzeswidrig" (contrary to law)
  • "unerlaubt" (unauthorized or prohibited)

Differences:

  • "Illegal" and "gesetzeswidrig" are largely synonymous with "rechtswidrig" and can often be used interchangeably. However, "gesetzeswidrig" places a slightly stronger emphasis on contravention of specific legislation.
  • "Unerlaubt" is a bit broader and can refer to anything that is not allowed or permitted, not necessarily breaking a law (e.g., entering a private property without permission).

In summary, while "rechtswidrig" always implies a legal infraction, other similar words may have broader or slightly different connotations.

Make “rechtswidrig” part of your vocabulary.

Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.

Examples

Das Verhalten war rechtswidrig.adjective

The behavior was illegal.

Eine rechtswidrige Handlung wurde von den Behörden geahndet.adjective

An unlawful act was punished by the authorities.

Eine Handlung kann als rechtswidrig eingestuft werden.adjective

An action can be classified as illegal.

Falschparken ist rechtswidrig.adjective

Illegal parking is unlawful.

Keep exploring German

Learn words from the content you love.

Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).