Justice: meaning, definitions and examples
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justice
[ˈʤʌstɪs ]
Definitions
in legal system
Justice is the quality of being fair and reasonable, especially in the way people are treated or decisions are made. It is the administration of what is just, especially by the impartial adjustment of conflicting claims or the assignment of merited rewards or punishments.
Synonyms
equity, fairness, impartiality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| justice |
Used to describe a situation where laws are applied equally and fairly to everyone, ensuring that everyone receives their due rights and punishment for wrongdoings.
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| fairness |
A general term to describe actions or decisions that are free from bias, discrimination, and ensuring that everyone is treated in the same manner.
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| equity |
Typically used in financial, social, or legal contexts to describe fairness in treatment and opportunities, often aiming to address inequalities and ensure everyone has access to the same opportunities.
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| impartiality |
Refers to not being biased or influenced by personal feelings, interests, or relationships, especially relevant in situations requiring objective decision-making.
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Examples of usage
- Everyone deserves justice regardless of their background.
- The judge ensured that justice was served in the courtroom.
as a concept
Justice is also used to refer to the concept of moral rightness based on ethics, rationality, law, natural law, religion, fairness, or equity.
Synonyms
integrity, morality, righteousness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| justice |
Use when referring to the fair administration of laws or the moral principle of fairness.
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| righteousness |
Use when referring to the quality of being morally right or justifiable, often with a strong implication of certitude.
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| morality |
Use when talking about principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior.
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| integrity |
Use when describing someone who is honest and adheres to strong moral principles.
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Examples of usage
- She always strives to do what is just and fair.
- The concept of justice is deeply rooted in many cultures around the world.
as a personification
Justice is often personified as a goddess holding scales and a sword, symbolizing the fair and equal administration of the law.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| justice |
Use in legal or moral situations where fairness, equality, and the rightful treatment of individuals is concerned.
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| truth |
Use in contexts where accuracy, honesty, or factual correctness is the focus.
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| balance |
Use when referring to a state of equilibrium or fairness in distribution, often used in physical settings or metaphorical applications like life balance.
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| rightfulness |
Use when discussing the legitimacy or correctness of an action, often with a moral or ethical aspect.
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Examples of usage
- The image of Justice is commonly depicted in art and literature.
- Justice is blind, representing impartiality and objectivity.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term has roots in Latin, derived from 'justitia', meaning righteousness and fairness.
- In Ancient Rome, 'Justitia' was depicted as a goddess, symbolizing moral integrity and fairness in law.
- Medieval thinkers combined justice with concepts of moral responsibility and the common good.
Philosophy
- Philosopher Plato believed justice is about harmony in society, where everyone plays their part.
- John Rawls proposed the idea of 'justice as fairness', suggesting rules should benefit the least advantaged.
- Aristotle saw justice not just as law, but as a virtue guiding individuals to act fairly.
Pop Culture
- Many superheroes, like Batman and Spider-Man, are depicted as fighting for justice in their stories.
- The phrase 'no justice, no peace' became popular during civil rights movements, emphasizing the need for equality.
- Movies like 'A Few Good Men' and '12 Angry Men' explore the complexities and struggles of seeking justice.
Law
- Justice systems often include judges and juries to ensure fair trials and verdicts.
- The concept of ‘restorative justice’ aims to repair relationships and make amends rather than just punish wrongdoers.
- International courts, like the International Criminal Court, work to ensure justice on a global scale, addressing war crimes.
Psychology
- Research shows that beliefs in fairness can significantly affect mental well-being and social interactions.
- Feelings of injustice can lead to social change, motivating people to fight for their rights and freedoms.
- Studies indicate that children develop a sense of justice early, often favoring fairness in sharing and group activities.
Translations
Translations of the word "justice" in other languages:
🇵🇹 justiça
🇮🇳 न्याय
🇩🇪 Gerechtigkeit
🇮🇩 keadilan
🇺🇦 справедливість
🇵🇱 sprawiedliwość
🇯🇵 正義 (せいぎ)
🇫🇷 justice
🇪🇸 justicia
🇹🇷 adalet
🇰🇷 정의 (jeong-ui)
🇸🇦 عدالة (adala)
🇨🇿 spravedlnost
🇸🇰 spravodlivosť
🇨🇳 正义 (zhèng yì)
🇸🇮 pravica
🇮🇸 réttlæti
🇰🇿 әділдік
🇬🇪 სამართლიანობა (samartlianoba)
🇦🇿 ədalət
🇲🇽 justicia