in the eyes of the law

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'in the eyes of the law' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to emphasize that something is considered legal or legitimate according to the law. For example, "In the eyes of the law, all citizens are equal regardless of their gender, race or religion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the eyes of the law, you have no responsibility.

The New Yorker

At least in the eyes of the law.

The New York Times

In the eyes of the law, this is correct.

The Guardian - Money

In the eyes of the law, they said he's innocent.

The Guardian - Music

In the eyes of the law we are all equal".

The Guardian - Money

They believe, in the eyes of the law, the pedestrian should always be right.

The New Yorker

"People expect fairness: everyone is equal in the eyes of the law.

The Economist

At that moment, they were companions — both to him and in the eyes of the law.

The New York Times

In the eyes of the law, he is innocent until proven guilty.

The New York Times

They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law.

Independent

In the eyes of the law, I haven't been a kid since I turned 18.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For emphasis in legal or formal contexts, use "in the eyes of the law" to underscore the legally recognized status or treatment of a subject.

Common error

Avoid using "in the eyes of the law" when describing personal beliefs or moral judgments. This phrase specifically refers to legal standing; misusing it can weaken your argument's credibility. For instance, instead of saying 'In the eyes of the law, stealing is always wrong,' which conflates moral and legal perspectives, focus on the legal definitions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the eyes of the law" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a statement by specifying that it is true or relevant from a legal perspective. As Ludwig AI explains, this expression indicates how something is regarded or defined according to legal standards, as demonstrated in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in the eyes of the law" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as Ludwig AI confirms. It serves to provide a legal context to a statement, clarifying that something is being considered according to legal standards rather than personal opinions or moral judgments. Its usage is prevalent in news and media sources, denoting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects legal principles to maintain clarity and credibility in your writing. You can use alternatives such as "according to the law", "under the law", or "from a legal standpoint" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As the law sees it

Personifies the law as having a viewpoint.

According to the law

States that something is in agreement with the law.

Under the law

Indicates a situation governed by the law.

By legal standards

Specifies that something is judged by the criteria of the law.

Legally speaking

Focuses on the legal aspect but is shorter and more direct.

From a legal standpoint

Highlights a legal perspective.

In legal terms

Refers to the specific terminology of the law.

In the view of the court

Emphasizes the perspective of a judicial body.

Within the legal framework

Indicates something is contained or addressed by existing legal structures.

From the perspective of jurisprudence

Uses more formal language related to the philosophy of law.

FAQs

How can I use "in the eyes of the law" in a sentence?

Use "in the eyes of the law" to indicate that something is considered a particular way according to legal standards. For example, "In the eyes of the law, a corporation is treated as an individual."

What's the difference between "in the eyes of the law" and "legally speaking"?

"In the eyes of the law" is often used to emphasize a specific viewpoint or treatment under the law, while "legally speaking" is a more general introduction to a legal perspective.

Is it correct to say "in the eye of the law" instead of "in the eyes of the law"?

No, the correct and commonly used phrase is "in the eyes of the law". Using "in the eye of the law" is grammatically incorrect.

What are some alternatives to using "in the eyes of the law"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "according to the law", "under the law", or "from a legal standpoint".