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constitutional

kon-sti-TOO-shun-ul /ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənəl/

adjectiveC1GRESATTOEFLIELTS

formallegalpolitical

Relating to an established set of principles governing a state; in accordance with the constitution.

Can describe something that adheres to the principles of a constitution, or something that is part of a person's physical makeup (less common in this legal context).

The story behind the word. Just like its parent word 'constitution,' 'constitutional' traces back to the Latin 'constitutio,' meaning 'act of establishing.' It describes anything that is 'of' or 'in accordance with' that fundamental established framework. If something is constitutional, it stands firm within the rules that define the very structure of a government.

Word relationships

lawful: In accordance with any law; 'constitutional' specifically refers to the supreme law of the land.
legitimate: Conforming to laws or rules; 'constitutional' implies adherence to the foundational legal framework.

unconstitutional: Not in accordance with the political constitution or with procedural rules.

Word family

constitution (noun): A body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed.
constitutionality (noun): The quality or state of being constitutional.

Collocations

constitutional rights
constitutional amendment
constitutional crisis
unconstitutional
constitutional monarchy

Example sentences

"The Supreme Court will review whether the new voting restrictions are constitutional." Referring to legality under a constitution.
"Constitutional law is a complex field that deals with the interpretation and application of a nation's fundamental legal document." Referring to a type of law.

Memory hook

If something is 'CONSTITUTIONAL,' it 'CONSISTS' of the rules in the 'CONSTITUTION.' Consists of constitution rules.

When not to use

Do not use 'constitutional' to mean simply 'legal' if the law in question is not directly related to the fundamental principles of the state's constitution.

Fun facts

The concept of 'constitutionalism' is the idea that government power is limited by a constitution, preventing arbitrary rule.
A 'constitutional monarchy' is a system where a monarch's power is limited by a constitution, as seen in the UK or Japan.

Related words

constitution, rule of law, due process

Explore more words

principled, ethical, convention, govern, customary, congenital