as a right

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a right" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is considered a legitimate entitlement or privilege. Example: "Every citizen should have access to education as a right, not a privilege."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Now, however, death is to be enshrined as a "right".

The Economist

Treating it as a right makes the scarcity worse.

The Economist

He is minus-5 as a right wing.

The New York Times - Sports

They see further gains in living standards as a right.

The Economist

Wayne comes across as a right sleaze though.

The Guardian - Film

Fame is seen as a right, an entitlement.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

A few decades ago McAuliffe would be viewed as a right-wing Democrat and Christie as a right-wing Republican.

University of California, Berkeley

Officials have denounced Mr Lavagna as a right-winger.

The Economist

"I think of it as a right-to-vote issue".

The New York Times

As a right-thinking liberal, I'm just as predictable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Later he worked as a right-wing journalist.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a right" to clearly convey that something should be universally accessible and not considered a privilege based on specific circumstances or merit. For example, frame basic healthcare as "healthcare as a right".

Common error

Avoid using "as a right" when describing something that is actually a privilege, which is contingent on certain conditions or achievements. Doing so can diminish the importance of genuine rights and create misunderstandings about entitlements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a right" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating the manner in which something is viewed, granted, or exercised. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a right" is a versatile and widely used expression that emphasizes the concept of entitlement and universal accessibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, consider its implications and connotations, distinguishing it from similar concepts like "as a privilege". Understanding the context and potential for misinterpretation ensures effective and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a matter of right

This explicitly emphasizes the legal or moral basis for a claim or entitlement.

by right

This alternative emphasizes the legitimacy and inherent justification for possessing something.

as an entitlement

This phrase highlights the belief that something is deserved or owed to an individual or group.

as a birthright

This phrase emphasizes the idea that something is inherited or naturally belongs to someone from birth.

as a prerogative

This suggests a special right or privilege that someone has due to their position or status.

as a due

This highlights the idea that something is owed or deserved.

by virtue of

This phrase implies that something is obtained or possessed as a result of a particular quality or characteristic.

inherently

This adverb emphasizes that something is an essential or natural part of something else.

as a given

This suggests that something is accepted or assumed without question.

as a matter of course

This phrase indicates that something happens naturally or as a normal consequence of events.

FAQs

How can I use "as a right" in a sentence?

You can use "as a right" to emphasize that something should be universally accessible and guaranteed to everyone. For example, you might say, "Access to clean water should be seen "as a right", not a luxury".

What is a more formal way to say "as a right"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "as an entitlement" or "as a matter of right". These alternatives convey a similar meaning but often suit professional or academic contexts better.

What's the difference between "as a right" and "as a privilege"?

"As a right" implies that something is inherent and guaranteed to all, while "as a privilege" suggests it's conditional and available only to some based on specific criteria or circumstances. It's important to distinguish between the two to avoid misrepresenting entitlements.

When is it appropriate to frame something "as a right"?

It is appropriate to frame something "as a right" when arguing for universal access and equal treatment, especially regarding fundamental needs or protections. This framing emphasizes the importance of ensuring equitable access for all members of society.