Illicitly

The adverb 'illicitly' describes actions done in a way that is forbidden by law, rules, or accepted moral standards. It implies secrecy, illegality, and a breach of ethical conduct. Things done illicitly are usually concealed or disguised to avoid detection and punishment. This adverb highlights the wrongful nature of an activity, emphasizing its violation of established norms. It suggests a deliberate choice to engage in forbidden behavior, often with the intent to gain an unfair advantage or to circumvent consequences.

Illicitly meaning with examples

• The company was found to have been operating illicitly for years, concealing its true financial practices from auditors and shareholders. Its actions involved tax evasion and fraudulent accounting, ultimately leading to criminal charges against the executives who had conducted business illicitly.
• Spies have been known to acquire classified information illicitly from various sources through illegal methods and espionage. They often employ deceptive means to obtain state secrets and other sensitive data, acting illicitly to undermine national security.
• In the black market, goods are bought and sold illicitly, often with little regard for safety or legality. People can acquire weapons, drugs, and other controlled items illicitly, creating dangerous networks of trade.
• During Prohibition, many people produced and sold alcoholic beverages illicitly, defying the laws enacted to restrict alcohol. These bootleggers circumvented the law by distributing alcohol and providing people with drinks that could be obtained only illicitly.