adverb
- in a manner that strictly adheres to the letter of the law rather than its spirit or intent; with excessive concern for legal technicalities
Usage: often carries a critical or disapproving tone; commonly used in legal, business, and formal contexts
Examples
- The company interpreted the contract legalistically, refusing to honor the spirit of the agreement.
- He argued legalistically that the rule did not explicitly forbid his actions.
- The prosecutor proceeded legalistically, focusing on technicalities rather than justice.
- She objected legalistically to every clause in the document.
- The government enforced the regulation legalistically, without considering hardship cases.
- Rather than negotiate in good faith, they responded legalistically to every proposal.