god-given right

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "god-given right" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a belief that certain rights or privileges are inherent and bestowed by a divine power. Example: "Many people believe that freedom of speech is a god-given right that should be protected at all costs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a God-given right that farmers were given when they were born to save these seeds," he said.

The New York Times

"It's not a God-given right that you're given the opportunity and the honour to represent your country," said the former Wales hooker.

BBC

As was his God-given right.

The New Yorker

Commenting on the Internet is an important, God-given right.

The New Yorker

The city's status as a financial centre is not a God-given right.

The Economist

The Pentagon chiefs have no God-given right to determine American defence policy in advance.

The Economist

For Hawker, it was the God-given right of (gentle)men to go out after game.

The Economist

Of people feeling that we have a God-given right to free healthcare.

The Guardian

"At some point they assume this is a God-given right.

The New York Times - Books

Driving in the left lane is not a God-given right.

The New York Times

Was this indulging in a person's God-given right to go online in the digital age?

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "god-given right", ensure that the context aligns with the implication that the right is divinely granted. Consider whether "natural right" or "inherent right" might be more appropriate if a non-religious connotation is preferred.

Common error

Avoid using "god-given right" when the right's origin is secular or legal, not divine. For instance, claiming that a legally defined right is "god-given" can be misleading.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "god-given right" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific type of right, one that is believed to be endowed by a divine power. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is commonly used to express a strong conviction about an inherent entitlement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "god-given right" is a noun phrase used to describe rights believed to be endowed by a divine power. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, writers should ensure that the context aligns with the implication that the right is divinely granted, avoiding misattribution in secular contexts. Alternatives such as "inherent right" or "natural right" may be more suitable when a non-religious connotation is preferred. The phrase functions to assert a strong claim and belief in the legitimacy of a particular right.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Divinely bestowed right

Replaces 'god-given' with a more formal adjective, retaining the religious connotation.

Inherent right

Focuses on rights that are naturally possessed, omitting the divine attribution.

Natural right

Emphasizes rights derived from nature and reason, not necessarily from a divine source.

Unalienable right

Highlights that the right cannot be taken away or transferred, irrespective of origin.

Inborn right

Stresses that the right is present from birth, without specifying the source.

Intrinsic right

Indicates that the right is essential and inseparable from the entity possessing it.

Fundamental right

Emphasizes the right's foundational importance, without attributing it to a divine origin.

Basic human right

Specifies the right as belonging to all humans, often in a secular context.

Endowment by creator

Refers to rights given by a higher power, similar to "god-given right", but more formal.

Inherent entitlement

Replaces "right" with entitlement, focusing on the aspect of being inherently deserving.

FAQs

What does "god-given right" mean?

A "god-given right" refers to a right believed to be bestowed by a divine entity, implying it is inherent and inalienable.

What can I say instead of "god-given right"?

You can use alternatives like "inherent right", "natural right", or "unalienable right" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "god-given right" in a secular context?

Using "god-given right" in a secular context may be perceived as inappropriate by some. Consider using terms like "fundamental right" or "basic human right" instead.

What is the difference between "god-given right" and "natural right"?

"God-given right" implies a divine origin, while "natural right" suggests the right arises from nature or reason, independent of religious belief.