just compensation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "just compensation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal contexts to refer to fair payment for property taken or damaged, often in relation to eminent domain. Example: "The government is required to provide just compensation to property owners when their land is acquired for public use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is taking property without just compensation".

The New York Times

That raises the question of what would be just compensation?

The New York Times

Just compensation to the victims is a legitimate objective.

The Washington Post

Just compensation rarely includes such items as loss of goodwill, moving costs, or counsel fees.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Just compensation is normally defined as the fair market value of the land or interest taken.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Court’s rival theory for explaining why just compensation is zero fares no better.

Cornell University

2. The original version of § 207 effected a "taking" of appellees' decedents' property without just compensation.

Cornell University

It could not take them without making just compensation to the owner.

Cornell University

John C.P. Goldberg, Comments, Misconduct, Misfortune, and Just Compensation: Weinstein on Torts, 97 Colum.

Harvard University

Held: The zoning ordinances on their face do not take appellants' property without just compensation.

Harvard University

Its property may not be taken for public use without just compensation.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In contracts and legal documents, clearly define what constitutes "just compensation" to avoid future disputes and ensure all parties understand the terms.

Common error

Avoid using "just compensation" when simply referring to a salary or payment for services. This phrase specifically applies to legal situations involving property takings or damages where fairness is a key consideration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just compensation" primarily functions as a noun phrase within legal and financial contexts. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples, which show it referring to the fair value or payment due when property is taken for public use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

33%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "just compensation" is a noun phrase primarily used in legal and financial contexts to denote fair payment for property or rights taken, particularly under eminent domain. As verified by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various sources, including news, academia, and encyclopedias. When writing, it is crucial to avoid using "just compensation" as a mere synonym of regular payment. Use "fair market value", "equitable reimbursement", or "reasonable recompense" as related phrases depending on the context to add precision to your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fair market value

Focuses specifically on the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller, often used in property valuation.

equitable reimbursement

Highlights the fairness and the act of repaying or compensating for losses or expenses.

reasonable recompense

Emphasizes the reasonableness and the act of making amends or compensating.

due remuneration

Stresses that the compensation is rightfully owed and the act of paying for services or losses.

adequate indemnity

Focuses on providing security or protection against a loss or other financial burden.

appropriate settlement

Highlights reaching an agreement on a fair amount to be paid.

just price

Simplifies the concept to a fair price, suitable for broader contexts beyond legal settings.

fair consideration

Emphasizes the fairness of the amount or payment given in exchange for something.

equitable payment

Focuses on the justice and fairness of the payment, suitable for discussions about fair wages or settlements.

reasonable damages

Highlights compensation for the damages suffered, specifically in a legal context.

FAQs

What is considered "just compensation" in eminent domain cases?

"Just compensation" typically refers to the fair market value of the property at the time of the taking, ensuring the owner is made whole. It may also include additional amounts to cover losses incurred due to the relocation.

How is "just compensation" determined?

The determination of "just compensation" often involves appraisals, negotiations, and sometimes litigation to assess the fair market value and any additional losses suffered by the property owner.

What happens if I disagree with the government's offer of "just compensation"?

If you disagree with the government's offer, you have the right to negotiate and challenge the valuation in court to seek a more "equitable reimbursement".

Is "just compensation" only relevant in property disputes?

While most commonly associated with property takings, the principle of "just compensation" can extend to other areas where individuals are entitled to fair payment for losses or damages, ensuring "equitable payment".