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illicit

Adjective

IPA /ɪˈlɪsɪt/

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Meaning in plain English

Not permitted by law, especially when an activity or trade is carried out secretly.

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Pronunciation

illicit/ɪˈlɪsɪt/

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A lawful sale with permission
A secret trade in stolen goods

The trade in stolen goods is illicit because it is unlawful.

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Police discovered an illicit trade in stolen bicycles near the station.
The report examined how illicit imports affected legitimate local businesses.

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Police discovered an ________ trade in stolen bicycles near the station.

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illicit — Not permitted by law, especially when an activity or trade is carried out secretly.

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Not permitted by law, especially when an activity or trade is carried out secretly.

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Word origin

From French or Latin illicitus, formed from a negative prefix and licitus, meaning allowed.

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Illicit commonly describes trade, goods, drugs or other prohibited activities.

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