rightly

adverb

right·​ly ˈrīt-lē 

1

: in accordance with right conduct : fairly, justly

2

: in the right or proper manner : properly, fittingly

3

: according to truth or fact : correctly, exactly

Synonyms

• appositely
• appropriately
• congruously
• correctly
• duly
• fittingly
• happily
• meetly
• properly
• right
• suitably

Examples of rightly in a Sentence

If I remember rightly, today is his birthday.

She rightly anticipated a decline in the value of the stock.

He points out, quite rightly, that there are flaws in the theory.

Many people, rightly or wrongly, believe the economy will soon improve.

She rightly admires his paintings.

People are rightly upset about the city's rising crime rate.

Quite rightly, the police commissioner is being blamed for the city's rising crime rate.

She is proud of her children, and rightly so.

Recent Examples on the Web

Eat tacos at Bird & Co. While many visitors have their taste buds set on fresh Maine seafood (and rightly so), this taco joint should not be skipped. —Erinne Magee, Travel + Leisure, 17 Apr. 2024

The United States and its European and Arab allies, who rightly stood by Israel against Iranian aggression tonight, would be wise to push Netanyahu to avoid a broader conflagration that will benefit no one in the region, least of all the people of Iran or Israel. —Arash Azizi, The Atlantic, 14 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rightly

• if (my) memory serves me (correctly/right/rightly)
• not rightly

Kids Definition

rightly

adverb

right·​ly ˈrīt-lē 

1

: in agreement with right conduct

2

: in the right or proper manner

3

: in agreement with truth or fact