What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ethical
Example
It is not ethical for doctors to disclose patient information without their consent. [ethical: adjective]
Example
The company has an ethical responsibility to reduce its carbon footprint. [ethical: noun]
right
Example
Everyone has the right to freedom of speech. [right: noun]
Example
It is right to stand up against discrimination and injustice. [right: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Right is more commonly used than ethical in everyday language. Right is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ethical is less common and often used in professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ethical and right?
Ethical is typically associated with a formal and professional tone, while right can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.