Quote:
Originally Posted by oojay
Main Entry: de·crim·i·nal·ize
Pronunciation: (")dE-'kri-m&-n&-"lIz, -'krim-n&l-
Function: transitive verb
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of; especially : to repeal a strict ban on while keeping under some form of regulation
Main Entry: crim·i·nal·ize
Pronunciation: 'kri-m&-n&l-"Iz, 'krim-n&-"lIz
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): -ized; -iz·ing
: to make illegal :
If they are opposites, and one means "to make illegal," then the other by default has to mean "to make legal."
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No, it doesn't. Decriminalizing would mean that, say, if the penalty for repeat offenders was 5 years in prison, it is reduced to a fine, or a few hours community service. It's still illegal. You just want to twist meanings around to suit your agenda.