on the right

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the right" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the location of an object--for example, "The painting is hanging on the right side of the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Blue on the right.

The Economist

Ditto on the right.

The Economist

It ended on the right.

The New Yorker

"You're on the right track.

The New York Times

"He's on the right road".

The New York Times - Sports

Barklage started on the right.

The New York Times - Sports

He's on the right track.

The New Yorker

On the right, it depends.

The New Yorker

Even so, squabbling on the right continues.

The Economist

The room on the right was empty.

The New Yorker

Clearly, Thernstrom is on the right track.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving directions, clarify "on the right" by adding landmarks or specific details to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Turn right at the gas station".

Common error

Ensure clarity by specifying what is "on the right" in relation to something else, such as "the building on the right" rather than just "on the right".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the right" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb by indicating direction or location. As evidenced by Ludwig, it commonly denotes a position relative to a subject or object.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the right" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate location, direction, or correctness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used in various contexts. While generally neutral in register, clarity is crucial to avoid ambiguity. Consider using specific landmarks or references. Alternatives such as "to your right" or "at your right-hand side" can offer variety, although "on the right" remains a clear and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to the correct side

Emphasizes the correctness of the side being referred to.

on the proper side

Highlights the appropriateness of the designated side.

in the right direction

Suggests movement or progress toward a correct goal.

at the right hand

Specifies location using a more formal or archaic expression.

going the right way

Implies making progress along a correct path.

down the right path

Similar to "going the right way" but emphasizes the journey.

on the starboard side

Refers specifically to the right side of a vessel.

on course

Indicates alignment with a planned trajectory or goal.

on the upside

Indicates a positive aspect or advantage.

on the beam

Figuratively, means one is correct or on track.

FAQs

How can I use "on the right" in a sentence?

You can use "on the right" to describe a location, direction, or choice. For example, "The museum is on the right side of the street", or "Choosing this option puts you "on the right track"".

What does "on the right track" mean?

"On the right track" means that you are proceeding in a way that is likely to lead to a desired result or goal. It suggests progress and correctness.

Are there alternatives to saying "on the right" when giving directions?

Yes, you can use phrases like "to your right", "at your right-hand side", or specify landmarks: "turn at the corner of X street".

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "on the right"?

The phrase is grammatically correct, but it can be unclear if the point of reference isn't well established. Ensure you clarify in relation to what something is "on the right".