Right

Definition

The term "right" can refer to correctness, moral propriety, entitlement to something, or the opposite direction of left.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Adverb
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /raɪt/
• Respelling: RITE

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /raɪt/
• Respelling: RITE

Etymology

The word "right" originates from the Old English "riht," meaning "straight, just, or correct," derived from the Proto-Germanic "rekhtaz" and ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root "*reg-," meaning "to move in a straight line." It has been used in various contexts since the 12th century.

Derivatives

• Righteous (adjective)
• Rightful (adjective)
• Rightness (noun)
• Overright (adjective, rare)
• Unright (adjective, archaic)

Synonyms

• Correct
• Just
• Proper

Antonyms

• Wrong
• Left (directional)
• Unjust

Usage

The term "right" is versatile, used to express correctness, fairness, entitlement, or direction. For example, "You were right about the answer," "He fought for his rights," or "Turn to the right at the next intersection."

Related Terms

• Justice: The concept of fairness and moral rightness.
• Entitlement: The right to possess something.
• Direction: The orientation toward the right-hand side.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Correct or accurate: Refers to something that is factually true or free from error.
  • Example: "The answer is right."
• Morally or ethically proper: Describes behavior or actions that align with principles of fairness, justice, or virtue.
  • Example: "She always tries to do the right thing."
• On or toward the side opposite to left: Indicates a spatial direction on the right-hand side.
  • Example: "Take a right turn."

Adverb

• Exactly or directly: Used to emphasize precision or proximity in location or position.
  • Example: "The store is right next to the bank."
• Immediately: Refers to something happening without delay or at once.
  • Example: "I'll be right back."

Noun

• A moral or legal entitlement: Refers to a justified claim or privilege that a person is inherently or legally allowed to have or exercise.
  • Example: "He fought for his civil rights."
• The side or direction opposite to left: Denotes a spatial orientation, typically used in navigation or physical arrangement.
  • Example: "The keys are on your right."

Verb

• To correct or restore to a proper position: Means to set something that is wrong, misaligned, or overturned back to its intended or proper state.
  • Example: "They righted the overturned boat."