The phrase “by rights” is commonly used in English language to express what should happen or what is deserved based on a certain set of rules or principles. It is often used to convey a sense of fairness or justice in a particular situation.
Definitions
By rights is an idiomatic expression that means “in accordance with what is just or fair” or “in a way that is deserved”. It is often used to express the idea that something should happen based on a particular set of rules or principles.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “by rights” is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages, when laws and customs were often based on a strict code of conduct. The phrase may have been used to express the idea that something should happen based on the rules of this code.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, by rights means “in accordance with justice or fairness; properly, rightfully.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “in a way that is morally or legally correct, or that should happen according to the rules.”
Associations
The phrase “by rights” is often associated with the idea of justice, fairness, and what is deserved. It is frequently used in legal and ethical contexts to express the idea that something should happen based on a particular set of rules or principles.
Synonyms
Synonyms for “by rights” include “rightly”, “justly”, “fairly”, “deservedly”, and “legitimately”.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “by rights” include “unjustly”, “unfairly”, “undeservedly”, and “illegitimately”.
The same root words
There are no specific root words associated with the phrase “by rights”, but it is related to the concept of justice and fairness, which are central to many legal and ethical systems.
Example Sentences
- By rights, he should have been promoted to manager by now.
- The company owes me a raise by rights, but I doubt I’ll get it.
- By rights, the accused should be given a fair trial.
- The inheritance should go to the eldest son by rights.
- By rights, the team with the most points should win the game.