Is it ok to use the word illegitimate when used in a sentence describibing prisoners that are inocent:
"The cost of keeping these illegitimate inmates are outragous."
answer only if you know please
thanks
2007-03-11 13:21:30 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Homework Help
yes or no is the use of the word illegitimate right?
2007-03-11 13:26:22 · update #1
The cost IS outrageous. Start with that.
2007-03-11 13:24:02 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
'illegitimate" means illegal. So it depends on whether the prisoners are in prison because of illegal action, or by error. If by error, then illegitimate is not the right word. In colloquial English usage, illegitimate when used in reference to a person means a person born to an unmarried mother.
Also, the verb in your sentence should be "is":
"The cost .... IS outrageous
2007-03-11 20:31:13 · answer #2 · answered by gp4rts 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Illegitimate brings illegitimate children to mind. Just my opinion but I would try a different word.
How about wrongly convicted or wrongly incarcerated.
2007-03-11 20:27:15 · answer #3 · answered by gimpalomg 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋