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A rather vague term, whose meaning is something like 'contrary to law'. An act is unlawful if the law recognizes that a person who perpetrates it should be prevented from enjoying its benefit. The term 'Actionable' has a similar meaning, although its use tends to suggest that a Civil law action is involved, rather than a criminal prosecution. Criminal acts can be described as unlawful; in this sense the term overlaps with 'Illegal'.