Vocabulary (Synonym) – Choose the word that best matches the meaning of the highlighted term. Sentence: The underworld still makes solid profit out of “illicit” liquor.

Introduction / Context:
“Illicit” refers to something forbidden by law, rules, or custom. In legal and journalistic usage, “illicit liquor” denotes alcohol produced, transported, or sold unlawfully (for example, bootlegging). We must choose the closest synonym that fits seamlessly in this context.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: illicit.
• Domain: law enforcement/organized crime.
• Options include indigenous, illegitimate, illegal, country.

Concept / Approach:
The exact legal synonym is “illegal” (against the law). “Illegitimate” can sometimes mean unlawful, but more commonly refers to non-marital birth or lacking official status, so it is less precise here. “Indigenous” and “country” are unrelated to legality and instead indicate origin or rural style.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Replace in context: “illegal liquor” is a standard phrase in legal reporting; “illegitimate liquor” is uncommon and potentially confusing.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• indigenous: Means native to a place; not about legality.
• illegitimate: Broader/ambiguous; not the best legal synonym here.
• country: Describes rustic style; irrelevant.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming near-morphological similarity (illicit/illegitimate) equals exact synonymy. Precision with legal adjectives matters.

Final Answer:
illegal