unlicensed
/ʌnˈlaɪsnst/ (bre, ipa) · [ənlˈaɪsənst] /ʌnˈlaɪsnst/ (ame, ipa) · [ənlˈaɪsənst] /ˌən-ˈlī-sᵊn(t)st How to pronounce unlicensed (audio)/ (ame, mw)
unlicensed — adjective
- unlicensedpositive
- more unlicensedcomparative
- most unlicensedsuperlative
1. used to describe a person who works, a business that operates, or an activity th
used to describe a person who works, a business that operates, or an activity that takes place without the official permission that the law requires — a licence to drive, sell goods, provide services, or own something like a gun
Joshua was fined for operating an {unlicensed} taxi near the airport.
unlicensed + taxi (profession/vehicle requiring a licence)
An {unlicensed} money lender charged Ramón interest rates that were illegal.
unlicensed + money lender (business requiring authorisation)
It is dangerous to hire an {unlicensed} contractor for electrical work in your home.
The court ordered the closure of three {unlicensed} day-care centres in the city.
Aoi refused treatment after learning the clinic employed {unlicensed} medical staff.
- unauthorised
broader — can mean any action done without permission, not only licence-related
- unregistered
focuses on being absent from an official list, rather than lacking a licence
- illegal
stronger — all unlicensed activities are usually illegal, but many illegal acts (like theft) have nothing to do with licensing
- licensed
direct opposite
- authorised
implies official permission was granted
用法筆記
Typically modifies nouns for professions, vehicles, businesses, or activities that the law requires to be licensed — for example, driver, taxi, contractor, firearm, pharmacy, or broadcast.