正しいこと

ただしいこと
noun phraseIntermediate what is right
formal

Actions or statements that are morally, ethically, or legally correct and appropriate.

社会は正しいことを奨励すべきだ。

Society should encourage what is right.

彼は正しいことをしただけなのに、なぜ批判されるのだろう。

He did what was right, so why is he being criticized?

💡

Often used in discussions about ethics, justice, or personal integrity. Can imply a sense of duty or obligation.

Related Phrases

正しい道を歩むphrase
to walk the right path (morally)
正しい判断phrase
correct judgment

💡Pro Tip

Nuance of 正しいこと

Unlike 'correct' or 'right' in English, 正しいこと often carries a stronger sense of moral or ethical correctness. It implies not just factual accuracy but also alignment with societal or personal values.

Gold Rule

When to use 正しいこと

Use this phrase when discussing ethical dilemmas, moral decisions, or situations where correctness is tied to values rather than just facts. Avoid using it for trivial or technical correctness.

📖Word Origin

正しい (tadashii) means 'correct' or 'right' (from the verb 正す, 'to correct'), and こと (koto) is a nominalizer meaning 'thing' or 'matter'. Together, they form a phrase emphasizing moral or ethical correctness.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in formal or moral contexts. It can sound somewhat abstract or philosophical in casual conversation. In everyday speech, simpler phrases like '正しい' (correct) or '正当な' (just) are often preferred.

Word Breakdown

正しい
correct, right, proper (moral/ethical sense)
adjective
+
こと
thing, matter (nominalizer)
noun
和英辞典