human rights

USAGE SUMMARY

'human rights' is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it to refer to the basic rights and freedoms that every person is entitled to by virtue of being human. For example, "The United Nations has taken on the mission of ensuring that all human rights are respected worldwide."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Human rights?

The New Yorker

"Where are human rights?

The New York Times

Human rights are trampled.

The Economist

These are human rights.

The New York Times

Downplay human rights?

The New Yorker

Oh, and human rights.

Independent

Human rights of individuals.

The New Yorker

There are human rights.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Human-rights activists?

The Economist

The human-rights abuses.

The New Yorker

Human-rights advocates were dismayed.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing international relations or policies, use "human rights" to frame ethical considerations and legal obligations, ensuring that discussions prioritize the well-being and dignity of individuals.

Common error

Avoid using "human rights" interchangeably with "legal rights." While legal rights are those granted by a specific legal system, "human rights" are considered universal and inherent, existing independently of any particular law.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "human rights" functions primarily as a noun, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a set of moral principles outlining certain standards of human behaviour, and is regularly protected as legal rights in national and international law, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "human rights" is widely used and understood to refer to the fundamental rights and freedoms inherent to all individuals. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and versatile across various contexts. While frequently seen in news and media, it also appears in formal business and scientific settings. When writing about "human rights", it's important to distinguish them from legal rights and to consider the specific ethical and legal implications within the context. Alternatives such as "fundamental rights" or "basic rights and freedoms" can provide subtle differences in emphasis, enriching your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fundamental rights

Emphasizes the foundational nature of these rights, suggesting they are essential and inalienable.

basic rights and freedoms

Highlights both the entitlements (rights) and the liberties (freedoms) that individuals should possess.

inalienable rights

Stresses that these rights cannot be taken away or transferred.

universal rights

Focuses on the idea that these rights apply to all people, regardless of location or status.

natural rights

Suggests these rights are inherent to human beings by nature, not granted by governments or laws.

civil liberties

Refers specifically to rights and freedoms that protect individuals from government interference.

individual rights

Highlights the rights possessed by each person, emphasizing personal autonomy.

legal entitlements

Focuses on rights that are recognized and protected by law.

protected freedoms

Emphasizes the safeguarding and defense of fundamental liberties.

personal freedoms

Stresses the autonomy and liberty of the individual.

FAQs

How are "human rights" defined?

"Human rights" are the basic rights and freedoms that belong to every person in the world, from birth until death. These rights apply regardless of where you are from, what you believe, or how you choose to live. They can include the right to life, liberty, and freedom from slavery and torture.

What are some examples of "human rights"?

Examples include the right to freedom of thought, expression, and religion; the right to equality before the law; and economic, social and cultural rights, such as the right to education, work, social security and health.

What is the difference between "civil liberties" and "human rights"?

While both relate to fundamental freedoms, "human rights" are considered universal and inherent to all individuals, whereas "civil liberties" are specific rights and freedoms guaranteed by a nation's constitution or laws.

Where can I learn more about "human rights"?

You can explore resources from organizations like the United Nations Human Rights Office, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International, which offer detailed information, reports, and educational materials.