Justice
'dʒʌstɪs
Definitions
3 meaningsThe quality of being just; righteousness, equitableness, or moral rightness: to administer justice to all; to fight for justice.
'dʒʌstɪs
Fairness, righteousness, and moral rightness.
The pursuit of justice is a fundamental principle of a democratic society.
💡 Simply: Justice is like making sure everyone gets a fair deal, like in a game where everyone follows the rules and there's no cheating. For instance, when a judge makes a decision in court, it's supposed to be about justice, making sure everything is fair.
👶 For kids: Justice means being fair and doing what's right, like sharing your toys so everyone can have fun.
More Examples
The organization is dedicated to fighting for social justice and human rights.
The victims of the crime sought justice through the legal system.
The judge was praised for her commitment to justice.
How It's Used
"The court strives to ensure justice for all citizens."
"Advocates fought for social justice and equality."
The administration of law; the fair and correct application of the law. The judge has the responsibility of administrating justice.
'dʒʌstɪs
The administration of law; the legal system.
The justice system is designed to protect the rights of all citizens.
💡 Simply: Think of justice as the system of rules, courts, and judges that keeps things fair in a town or country. When someone breaks the rules, justice is about making sure they are dealt with according to the law, so things are fair for everyone.
👶 For kids: Justice is like the rule keeper, making sure everyone follows the rules so everything is fair.
More Examples
She dedicated her career to the pursuit of criminal justice.
The court system is responsible for the administration of justice.
The police are tasked with upholding justice in the community.
How It's Used
"The system of justice in the country is undergoing reform."
"The Department of Justice investigates federal crimes."
A judge or magistrate, especially a judge of the peace.
'dʒʌstɪs
A judge or magistrate.
The Supreme Court justices are appointed for life.
💡 Simply: When you hear "justice" in this way, it's referring to someone in charge of the law like a judge, especially in a court. They are the ones who make the decisions about what is right and wrong and enforce laws.
👶 For kids: A justice is like the referee in court, they decide what's fair and makes sure everyone follows the rules.
More Examples
The justice presided over the trial.
The new law was challenged by the justices.
The justices heard arguments from both sides.
How It's Used
"The justice of the Supreme Court delivered the opinion."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Blind justice
Justice that is impartial and unbiased, not influenced by personal feelings or prejudices.
"The legal system is designed to deliver blind justice, treating everyone equally under the law."
To do justice to something
To treat something or someone fairly or adequately; to represent something accurately or appropriately.
"The documentary didn't do justice to the complexity of the issue."
From Old French *justice* (11th c.), from Latin *iūstitia*, meaning "righteousness, equity".
The concept of justice has been a central theme in philosophical and legal thought for centuries, with roots in ancient Greek and Roman traditions.
Memory tip
Imagine a scales, perfectly balanced, representing fairness and rightness. Justice is about balance and what is right.
Word Origin
"righteousness, equity"