rightly

American  

[rahyt-lee] / ˈraɪt li /

adverb

1. in accordance with truth or fact; correctly.

   to see rightly; to understand rightly.

2. in accordance with morality or equity; uprightly.

3. properly, fitly, or suitably.

   to be rightly dressed.

4. Informal. with certainty; positively.

   I can't rightly say.

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rightly British  

/ ˈraɪtlɪ /

adverb

1. in accordance with the facts; correctly

2. in accordance with principles of justice or morality

3. with good reason; justifiably

   he was rightly annoyed with her

4. properly or suitably; appropriately

   rightly dressed for a wedding

5. informal (used with a negative) with certainty; positively or precisely (usually in the phrases I don't rightly know, I can't rightly say )

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Etymology

Origin of rightly

before 900; Middle English; Old English rihtlīce. See right, -ly

Example Sentences

"When he was convicted of these very serious crimes, the justice system, rightly, dealt with him," she said.

From BBC

I have never sought to dismiss or diminish the seriousness of the offences for which he was rightly convicted.

From BBC

The Civil Nuclear Constabulary held a misconduct hearing last month and the panel found the case "shocking" and said the public would be "rightly appalled".

From BBC

"Our European customers rightly expect us to offer electric vehicles that are as affordable as possible," they said.

From Barron's

“Children’s advocates rightly point to kids’ emotional happiness, well-being and social skills as the foundation,” Fuller said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accurately
• appropriately
• correctly
• exactly
• fairly
• justly
• properly
• truly