不法

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"不法" (bùfǎ) literally means "not lawful" or "illegal." It is commonly used to describe actions, behaviors, or situations that violate laws or regulations. The term carries a formal tone and is often found in legal, governmental, or news contexts.

Common Collocations

  • 不法行为 (illegal behavior): used to describe unlawful acts.
  • 不法 (illegal land occupation): a frequent phrase in property or urban management discussions.
  • 不法 (illegal elements): refers to individuals or groups involved in unlawful activities.

Usage Notes

When using 不法, it emphasizes the illegality or unlawfulness of something, often with a negative connotation. It is more formal than colloquial terms like "违法" (wéifǎ), though both can mean illegal. 不法 is often used in written or official contexts rather than casual speech.

Common Confusion

Don't confuse 不法 with 违法. While both mean illegal, 违法 is more general and common in everyday speech, whereas 不法 often implies a stronger legal violation or criminal aspect.

Example Sentences

The police are investigating this illegal act.

The issue of illegal land occupation has caused strong opposition from

The government has intensified its crackdown on illegal elements.