righteousness - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
righteousness Word Meanings
- Morally right and virtuous quality
- Adherence to divine law or being in a right standing before God
- Fairness and correctness in actions or judgments
righteousness Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
righteousness Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈraɪtʃəs.nəs/
US
/ˈraɪtʃəs.nəs/
righteousness Word Etymology
(a) Root decomposition: right + wise + -ness. (b) Historical origin: from Old English rihtwisnes, built from riht (right) + wys (wise) with the suffix -nes; the religious sense arrived via Latin iustitia and Greek dikaiosynē. (c) Memory image: a just judge balances good and bad deeds on a bright scale, with righteousness written on a banner.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Righteousness is a noun describing morally right and virtuous conduct, and also a standing before God in many religious traditions. It carries two main senses: personal virtue—being honest, fair, and upright in actions and motives; and being in a right relationship with the divine through adherence to divine law or faith. In everyday use, people speak of living in righteousness or seeking righteousness as a goal, sometimes with religious overtones. The concept also appears in ethical and legal discussions to denote fairness and correctness in judgments, rules, or actions. The phrase 'righteousness and justice' highlights integrity as a core value across contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Righteousness often implies both inner character and outward behavior.
- It is common in religious or ethical discussions, not just law.
- Avoid confusing it with self-righteousness, which is a judgmental attitude.
- Related forms: righteous (adj) and righteousness (noun).
- In secular use, it can mean fairness or correctness in a decision or rule.
Common Misconceptions
- It means being perfect and flawless.
- It only relates to religion.
- Self-righteousness is righteousness.
- It refers to wealth or power.
- It is a modern, secular term with no history.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice with collocations like 'righteousness and justice' to show pairing
- Careful with 'self-righteousness' to avoid accusing others
- Notice both moral virtue and legal fairness
- Compare with 'righteous' as an adjective
- Read religious and ethical texts to see broad usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'righteousness' mean?
A.A type of vegetable
B.The act of running quickly
C.A state of moral perfection
D.A fashion style
Step 2: Usage
How is 'righteousness' used in a sentence?
A.His righteousness was evident in how he helped the community.
B.She wore righteousness to the event.
C.Righteousness can be found in fast cars.
D.They bought righteousness for their new house.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'righteousness'?
A.Integrity
B.Rage
C.Happiness
D.Speed
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'righteousness'?
A.Bravery
B.Wisdom
C.Corruption
D.Adventure
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone demonstrates righteousness?
A.Someone goes for a long run in the park.
B.A person stands up for justice at a community meeting.
C.A chef prepares a delicious dish.
D.An entrepreneur starts a business.
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