Rightness: meaning, definitions and examples

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rightness

 

[ ˈraɪtnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in ethics

The quality or state of being correct or true; conformity to fact or truth. It is often used in moral or ethical contexts to refer to the principle of doing what is right.

Synonyms

correctness, integrity, morality, truth.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rightness

Used to describe the quality of being morally or ethically correct.

  • The rightness of his actions was never in question.
  • She questioned the rightness of the decision.
correctness

Refers to the accuracy or being free from errors, often in relation to factual or technical details.

  • The teacher praised the student for the correctness of the homework.
  • Correctness in spelling is important in formal writing.
truth

Refers to the state of being in accordance with fact or reality.

  • She finally discovered the truth about her past.
  • Truth is often stranger than fiction.
morality

Refers to principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior.

  • The story is a reflection on the morality of war.
  • Discussing the morality of the law can be complex.
integrity

Describes the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.

  • Her integrity made her a trustworthy leader.
  • He was praised for his integrity in both personal and professional matters.

Examples of usage

  • The decision was made with a focus on rightness rather than convenience.
  • She always strives for rightness in her actions, even when it's difficult.
  • His sense of rightness guided him in making the tough choices.
Context #2 | Noun

in mathematics

The quality or state of being perpendicular or at a right angle.

Synonyms

orthogonality, perpendicularity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rightness

Use when referring to the quality of being correct, morally good, or suitable.

  • The rightness of his actions was unquestionable.
  • She felt confident in the rightness of her decision.
perpendicularity

Use when describing the geometric relationship where two lines or surfaces intersect at a 90-degree angle.

  • He measured the perpendicularity of the wall to ensure it was straight.
  • The engineer checked for perpendicularity in the structure.
orthogonality

Use in a mathematical or technical context to describe vectors that are perpendicular to each other. Can also be used metaphorically in fields like data analysis or computer science to indicate independence.

  • The vectors were checked for orthogonality.
  • Ensuring orthogonality of variables is important in regression analysis.

Examples of usage

  • The rightness of the triangle was essential to solving the problem.
  • Make sure the lines are at perfect rightness before proceeding.
Context #3 | Noun

in aesthetics

The quality or state of being in harmony or balance.

Synonyms

balance, harmony, proportion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rightness

Use 'rightness' when referring to moral or ethical correctness. The term often implies a sense of justice and appropriate conduct.

  • The rightness of her actions cannot be disputed.
  • He questioned the rightness of the decision.
harmony

Use 'harmony' when describing a state of congruence or agreement, particularly in relationships, music, or arrangements where parts come together smoothly and without conflict.

  • Their voices blended in perfect harmony.
  • Living in harmony with nature is crucial for our future.
balance

Use 'balance' when discussing a state where different elements are in the correct or pleasing proportions. This can be used in a physical, emotional, or abstract sense.

  • She managed to find a balance between work and leisure.
  • The painting's colors are in perfect balance.
proportion

Use 'proportion' when talking about the relative size or extent of something, often in relation to design, art, or mathematics. It indicates balance between parts.

  • The architect admired the building's proportions.
  • The painting's lack of proportion was deliberate.

Examples of usage

  • The artist achieved a sense of rightness in the composition of the painting.
  • There's a natural rightness to the design that is pleasing to the eye.

Translations

Translations of the word "rightness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 brilho

🇮🇳 चमक

🇩🇪 Helligkeit

🇮🇩 kecerahan

🇺🇦 яскравість

🇵🇱 jasność

🇯🇵 明るさ

🇫🇷 luminosité

🇪🇸 brillo

🇹🇷 parlaklık

🇰🇷 밝기

🇸🇦 سطوع

🇨🇿 jasnost

🇸🇰 jasnosť

🇨🇳 亮度

🇸🇮 svetlost

🇮🇸 birtustig

🇰🇿 жарқырау

🇬🇪 სიკაშკაშე

🇦🇿 parlaqlıq

🇲🇽 brillo

Etymology

The word 'rightness' has its origins in Middle English, where it was derived from the Old English word 'rihtnes', meaning 'justice' or 'righteousness'. Over time, its meaning expanded to include concepts of correctness, truth, and moral integrity. The use of 'rightness' in ethical discussions became more prominent during the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting a focus on moral principles and doing what is morally right. In mathematics and aesthetics, 'rightness' took on additional nuances related to perpendicularity, harmony, and balance.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,718, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.