Rightly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘
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rightly

[หˆraษชtli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a correct or just way

Rightly is an adverb that means in a correct or just way. It is used to indicate that something is done or judged according to what is morally right or fair. The adverb rightly is often used to express approval or agreement with a decision or action.

Synonyms

appropriately, correctly, fairly, justly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rightly

When you want to indicate that something is done in a way that is morally proper or accurate based on reason or fact.

  • He was rightly praised for his efforts
  • The decision was rightly overturned
correctly

Refers to doing something in the right way according to a set of rules or guidelines.

  • Make sure you spell the words correctly
  • He correctly identified the error in the report
justly

Similar to fairly, it refers to actions that are morally right or deserved, but with a stronger emphasis on justice and righteousness.

  • His actions were justly rewarded
  • The criminal was justly punished for his crimes
fairly

Used when talking about doing something in a just, unbiased, or honest way. It generally has a positive connotation.

  • She was treated fairly by her employer
  • The competition was judged fairly
appropriately

Used when describing something that is suitable or proper in a specific context or situation.

  • He was dressed appropriately for the formal event
  • The remarks were appropriately measured given the situation

Examples of usage

  • He was rightly praised for his bravery.
  • The judge rightly ruled in favor of the victim.
  • She rightly pointed out the flaws in his argument.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that is accurate or true

Rightly can also mean in a way that is accurate or true. When used in this context, it indicates that something is done or judged according to facts or reality. The adverb rightly is often used to emphasize the correctness of a statement or belief.

Synonyms

accurately, correctly, precisely, truthfully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rightly

Used when justifying or supporting a decision, action, or observation.

  • He was rightly proud of his achievements.
  • You can rightly say that they deserve the award.
accurately

Used when describing the exactness or correctness of an action, statement, or measurement.

  • The scientist accurately measured the temperature.
  • She described the event so accurately that it felt like I was there.
truthfully

Used when expressing honesty and sincerity. Can sometimes imply that the speaker could have chosen to be less honest.

  • He answered the judge's questions truthfully.
  • Truthfully, I didn't enjoy the party.
precisely

Used to indicate exactness and meticulous attention to detail.

  • She placed the book precisely on the edge of the table.
  • The instructions need to be followed precisely to avoid errors.
correctly

Used when something is done in accordance with rules, facts, or guidelines.

  • He correctly answered all the questions on the test.
  • Please make sure you spell her name correctly.

Examples of usage

  • She rightly predicted the outcome of the election.
  • The scientist rightly concluded that the experiment was a success.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In ethics, doing things 'rightly' can refer to actions aligned with moral principles or virtues.
  • Philosophers like Aristotle emphasize the importance of acting rightly as a part of achieving happiness or 'eudaimonia'.

Law

  • Legal language often uses 'rightly' to describe actions that conform to established laws and regulations.
  • Judges may reference 'rightly' when affirming decisions that align with justice and fairness.

Literature

  • In literature, characters who act rightly often embody traits such as honesty, bravery, and morality, setting them apart from others.
  • Classic texts often explore the tension between what is 'rightly' done versus what characters desire or instinctively choose.

Psychology

  • The perception of what is 'rightly' done can be influenced by cultural norms, showing how social contexts shape our moral judgments.
  • Cognitive dissonance theory explains how people may justify their actions when they believe they acted rightly, even if evidence suggests otherwise.

Origin of 'rightly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'rightly' comes from the Old English 'riht', which means correct or proper.
  • It has been used in the English language since the 14th century, combining 'right' with the suffix '-ly' to form an adverb.

The word 'rightly' has its origins in Middle English, where it was derived from the Old English word 'riht,' meaning 'right' or 'just.' Over time, the adverb 'rightly' developed to convey the idea of correctness, justice, or truth. It has been used in the English language for centuries to express the concept of doing something in a manner that is morally or factually correct.


See also: outright, right, righteous, righteously, rightful, rightfulness, rightness, rights, rightsizing.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,710 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.