Just Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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just
[dʒʌst ]
Definitions
in a moment ago
Only a short time ago; only a moment ago.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| just |
Used to emphasize the completeness or exactness of a particular point.
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| recently |
Describes events or actions that have taken place not long ago, similar to 'lately' but often more formal.
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| lately |
Refers to something that has occurred in the recent past, but not necessarily immediately.
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| only |
Used to indicate that there is no more than the specified amount or degree, often emphasizing limitation or restriction.
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Examples of usage
- I just saw him a minute ago.
- She left just a few moments ago.
exactly or precisely
Used to emphasize that a particular thing is exactly or precisely what is stated.
Synonyms
exactly, exactly, precisely.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| just |
Use to mean 'fair' or 'right' when referring to actions or decisions.
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| exactly |
Use to confirm complete accuracy or to specify something with precision.
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| precisely |
Use to emphasize exactness or correctness, often in technical or detailed contexts.
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Examples of usage
- It's just what I wanted.
- He's just the person I need for this job.
based on justice or reason
Based on or behaving according to what is morally right and fair.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| just |
Refers to a situation or action that is morally right or reasonable. Used often in legal, ethical, or philosophical contexts.
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| fair |
Describes a situation that is free from bias, dishonesty, or injustice. Commonly used in everyday language, sports, and evaluations.
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| equitable |
Pertains to fairness or justice in the way people are treated. Often used in contexts involving distribution of resources or benefits.
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| righteous |
Connotes strong moral correctness or virtue, often tied to religious or ethical beliefs. Can sometimes come across as self-righteous if used negatively.
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Examples of usage
- He made a just decision.
- They received a just punishment for their actions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Philosophers discuss 'justice' in terms of morality, exploring what it means to act 'justly.'
- In moral philosophy, act utilitarianism works to ensure actions yield the best outcomes for the most people, highlighting fairness.
- The concept of distributive justice focuses on fair distribution of goods and resources.
Legal Context
- In law, 'just' refers to actions in alignment with the law, emphasizing fairness and equity in legal proceedings.
- 'Justice' is key in court systems, where judges aim to render decisions that are just for all parties involved.
- Legal precedents often revolve around what is deemed 'just' according to historical case law.
Social Science
- Studies in sociology examine how different cultures define 'justice' and what is considered fair in various societies.
- Social justice movements advocate for equality and fight against discrimination, underscoring the importance of being 'just' in community practices.
- Research shows that perceptions of justice can greatly affect people's trust in institutions and social cohesion.
Literature
- In literature, characters often grapple with concepts of justice, showcasing the struggles between right and wrong.
- Famous works like 'A Tale of Two Cities' explore themes of justice and sacrifice in the context of societal upheaval.
- The phrase 'just like that' is commonly used in storytelling to indicate fairness and sudden resolution.
Origin of 'just'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'justus,' meaning 'lawful' or 'right.'
- It entered the English language during the 14th century, evolving to include the meaning of fairness in actions.
- Related words include 'justice' and 'justify,' all stemming from the concept of rightness.
The word 'just' originated from the Latin word 'iustus', meaning 'morally right, fair, equitable'. It has been used in the English language since the Middle English period, evolving to encompass various meanings such as 'only a short time ago', 'exactly or precisely', and 'based on justice or reason'. The word has been widely used in literature, law, and everyday language to convey ideas of fairness, accuracy, and timeliness.
See also: injustice, injustly, justice, justify, justly, unjust, unjustifiable, unjustly.