Initially looks terrible, but is altogether legal (6)

I believe the answer is:

lawful

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'altogether legal' is the definition.
'lawful' can be an answer for 'legal' (similar in meaning). I am unsure of the 'altogether' bit.

'initially looks terrible' is the wordplay.
'initially' indicates taking the first letters.
'terrible' becomes 'awful' (synonyms).
The initial letter of 'looks' is 'l'.
'l'+'awful'='LAWFUL'

'but is' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for lawful that I've seen before include "Right!" , "Not illegal" , "Legally permissible" , "Legally permitted" , "Legal" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.

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