-alis

of, relating to

Forms

-alis
-aris — Latin variant especially used when the stem already contained l, avoiding a repeated l sound.
-al — English ending borrowed through French or directly from Latin.
-ar — English ending continuing Latin -aris.

Origin

An older Latin adjective-forming suffix; its more remote ancestry is uncertain.

Note

Expresses a relationship without specifying its kind: material, place, purpose, and other connections are possible.

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adjective

legal

LEE-gul/ˈliːɡl/

Recognized within the system of law.

The lawyer presents a legal document to the judge.

A judge presiding at a courtroom bench, with a lawyer presenting a document, concretely illustrates the selected sense 'connected with law.'.

Etymology

legLatinlaw or enacted rule

+alLatinof, relating to

The law root first gave legal the broad meaning “pertaining to law.” Its meaning then extended to “permitted by law,” distinguishing lawful conduct from things merely connected with the legal system.

In context

The Irish Pagan School7:40

the legal framework, the Brehon Law and the recognition and the regulation of satire.

Cursing in Irish Witchcraft: The Same Hands That Healed | Series Episode 1

More examples

She seeks legal advice before signing the lease.
The court recognizes him as the child's legal guardian.
Parking here is legal after six.

Forms

legally adverb — In a way permitted by law.

legality noun — The state of being permitted by law.

Similar words

lawful: Emphasizes permission under law rather than connections with courts.
judicial: Specifically concerns judges and courts rather than law generally.