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by rights

Idioms  
  1. Justly, in fairness, as in By rights he should have been chosen first. Originally put as by right, this term was first recorded about 1315.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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Their operations have been widely criticised by rights groups.

From Barron's May 19, 2026

As mayor he was criticised by rights groups of using the police against street vendors in a heavy-handed manner, as he worked to keep roads clear in the capital and crack down on unlicensed businesses.

From BBC Mar. 2, 2026

The drivers were speaking in pool interviews provided by rights holder F1 and governing body the FIA, or in team statements.

From BBC Jan. 26, 2026

"Enough with the lies," she exclaimed, alluding to the figures issued by rights groups.

From Barron's Jan. 24, 2026

Her brother Edmure had called' the banners; by rights, Lord Frey should have gone to join the Tully host at Riverrun, yet here he sat.

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin

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