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justly

C1
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /dʒˈʌstli/

US

  • /ˈdʒəstli/

Description

To act justly means to treat people fairly and without bias, giving each person what they deserve, no matter their status or background. Think of a judge making a ruling; ideally, they do so justly, based on the law and the facts, not personal feelings. It is about doing what is right and making sure results match people's actions. A reward that is justly earned feels much better than one given unfairly.

The word carries weight. It suggests a real commitment to what is right and good. You might describe a leader as acting justly when they make decisions that are fair to all their people, or say that something is not being handled justly. It is more than simply "fair"; it also suggests moral rightness.

Examples

  1. 1

    Fair pay

    Every worker should be paid justly for their time.

  2. 2

    Sports decision

    She felt the referee had not treated her team justly.

  3. 3

    Legal punishment

    The court must decide whether the accused were punished justly.

  4. 4

    Personal pride

    He was justly proud of the small business he had built from nothing.

  5. 5

    Well-deserved fame

    The city is justly famous for its seafood.

    • Pattern

      justly famous for + thing

      famous for a good reason

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • justlyadverb