equality before the law

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "equality before the law" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to refer to a legal principle that all people should be treated equally and fairly under the law. For example, "The principle of equality before the law is essential to a just society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Article 12 of the Constitution of the Republic of Singapore guarantees to all persons equality before the law and equal protection of the law.

Wikipedia

This is effectively a demand for equal opportunity to realize one's talents and equality before the law.

European Journal of Futures Research

Even a populist like Andrew Jackson demanded only "the classic bourgeois ideal, equality before the law, the restriction of government to equal protection of its citizens".

The New Yorker

One is equality before the law.

The New York Times

Democracy, peaceful protest, equality before the law.

The Guardian

The Indian constitution guarantees equality before the law.

The Guardian

Equality before the law fails in an unequal society.

The Guardian - Opinion

Equality before the law is not ditched lightly.

The Guardian - Opinion

What happened to the principle of equality before the law?

The Guardian - Opinion

"Equality before the law" is a sick myth.

The Guardian

New regulations ensured standards of treatment and established equality before the law for "masters" and "servants".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or ethical principles, use "equality before the law" to emphasize the importance of impartiality and fairness in the justice system.

Common error

Avoid using "equality before the law" when you actually mean equality of outcome. The former refers to fair legal processes, while the latter refers to equal results, which are distinct concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "equality before the law" functions as a noun phrase, representing a fundamental legal and ethical principle. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates that everyone should be treated impartially and fairly within the legal system. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in constitutions and legal discussions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "equality before the law" is a noun phrase denoting the fundamental principle of equal and impartial treatment under the legal system. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It frequently appears in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science, highlighting discussions of legal rights and justice. Remember to use this phrase when emphasizing fairness and impartiality in legal contexts, distinguishing it from concepts like equality of outcome. Related phrases include "equal justice under law" and "legal equality".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal justice under law

Replaces "equality" with "equal justice" focusing on the judicial system's role.

equal protection of the law

Highlights the aspect of legal safeguards and fair application of laws.

legal equality

A more concise term emphasizing the equality aspect in legal contexts.

impartial justice

Focuses on the absence of bias and fairness in the administration of justice.

fair legal treatment

Emphasizes the fairness aspect of how individuals are treated within the legal system.

rule of law

A broader concept where laws are applied equally to all, including those in power.

justice for all

A more general statement about ensuring justice is available to everyone.

equal rights under the law

Highlights the aspect of equal rights being protected by the law.

non-discriminatory justice

Focuses on the absence of discrimination in the justice system.

uniform application of the law

Emphasizes consistency and standardization in how laws are applied.

FAQs

How can I use "equality before the law" in a sentence?

You might say, "The constitution ensures "equality before the law" for all citizens, regardless of their background."

What's the difference between "equality before the law" and "equal protection under the law"?

"Equality before the law" means everyone is subject to the same laws and legal processes. "Equal protection under the law" specifically refers to the Fourteenth Amendment in the US Constitution, guaranteeing that states cannot deny anyone equal protection of its laws.

What are some other ways to express "equality before the law"?

You could use phrases like "equal justice under law" or "legal equality" depending on the specific context.

Is "equality before the law" a universally applied principle?

While it's a widely recognized ideal, the actual implementation of ""equality before the law"" varies across different jurisdictions and societies, and often faces challenges in practice.