a birthright

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a birthright" is correct and usable in written English.
It usually refers to something that is an inherent entitlement passed from generation to generation. For example, "the king's birthright ensured his ability to rule the kingdom".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Culture

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's not a birthright.

The New York Times - Sports

"The American story is a birthright.

The New York Times

We regard victory as a birthright.

The New York Times

Winning the World Cup was seen as a birthright.

The New Yorker

"It was almost like a birthright here," Tekulve said.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Donziger's activism is something of a birthright.

The New York Times

Even today Americans think of victory as a birthright.

The New Yorker

Identity crises are a birthright in the United States.

The New York Times

That's why I went on a Birthright Israel trip".

The Guardian - Books

Traditionally, a peerage was a birthright, and therefore could never be taken away.

Independent

When fame is a birthright, how do you ever step off the carousel?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a birthright", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being considered an inherent entitlement, and by whom.

Common error

Avoid assuming that what one group considers "a birthright" is universally accepted as such. Clearly define the perspective from which something is viewed as an inherent entitlement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a birthright" functions primarily as a noun phrase used to describe something that is considered an inherent or inalienable right due to one's birth or origin. Ludwig provides examples showcasing the expression in varied contexts such as in sports, culture or politics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a birthright" is a noun phrase denoting something considered an inherent right due to birth or origin. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. The expression appears most frequently in News & Media, often in discussions related to politics, sports, and cultural entitlements. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can vary depending on the context. When using the expression, it's important to be clear about what's being considered "a birthright" and whose perspective is being represented.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inherent right

Focuses directly on the inherent nature of the right, omitting the generational aspect.

a natural entitlement

Emphasizes the natural or intrinsic quality of the entitlement.

a vested privilege

Highlights the secure and established nature of the privilege.

a hereditary claim

Stresses the inherited aspect of the claim or right.

a rightful inheritance

Combines the concepts of rightfulness and inheritance.

an inalienable possession

Focuses on the impossibility of being deprived of the possession.

a guaranteed privilege

Emphasizes the assured or certain nature of the privilege.

a traditional prerogative

Highlights the customary or long-standing nature of the prerogative.

a due entitlement

Stresses that the entitlement is justly deserved.

a legacy

Implies something passed down or inherited from the past.

FAQs

How can I use "a birthright" in a sentence?

You can use "a birthright" to describe something someone is entitled to by virtue of birth, such as citizenship or certain privileges. For example, "Access to clean water should be considered "a birthright" for all citizens".

What is the difference between "a right" and "a birthright"?

"A right" is a general entitlement, while "a birthright" specifically refers to an entitlement received by birth or heritage. A birthright implies inheritance or inherent privilege.

What are some synonyms for "a birthright"?

Alternatives to "a birthright" include "an inherent right", "a natural entitlement", or "a vested privilege". These phrases capture the sense of something being inherently deserved or granted.

Is it correct to use "a birthright" to describe something earned through hard work?

No, "a birthright" should not be used to describe something earned through effort. It refers specifically to entitlements received by birth or inheritance, not through personal achievement. Something earned would be better described as "a deserved reward" or "a hard-earned success".