権利
Kenri refers to a legal or moral entitlement to have something or to act in a certain way. It describes the power or status recognized by law or society that allows an individual to claim specific benefits or freedoms.
Examples
3 of 5誰にでも幸せになる権利があります。
Everyone has the right to be happy.
基本的人権は、憲法によって守られています。
Fundamental human rights are protected by the constitution.
君にそんなことを言う権利はないよ。
You don't have the right to say something like that.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Remember the kanji: 権 (authority/power) + 利 (profit/benefit). It is your 'authority' to receive a 'benefit'.
Quick Quiz
すべての国民には、教育を受ける___がある。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 権利
Examples
誰にでも幸せになる権利があります。
everydayEveryone has the right to be happy.
基本的人権は、憲法によって守られています。
formalFundamental human rights are protected by the constitution.
君にそんなことを言う権利はないよ。
informalYou don't have the right to say something like that.
この研究は著作権によって保護されている。
academicThis research is protected by copyright.
当社はその製品を販売する独占的権利を有しています。
businessOur company holds the exclusive right to sell that product.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
権利の侵害
infringement of rights
既得権
vested interest / entrenched right
財産権
property rights
Often Confused With
Kenri (権利) is a legal 'right' or entitlement, while Kenryoku (権力) refers to political or social 'power' and authority over others.
Usage Notes
The word is most commonly used with the verb 'aru' (to have) or 'motsu' (to hold). It is a neutral term but carries significant weight in legal and social discussions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse it with 'power' (kenryoku). Remember that 'kenri' is something you possess as a person (like a right), while 'kenryoku' is something you use to control things.
Memory Tip
Remember the kanji: 権 (authority/power) + 利 (profit/benefit). It is your 'authority' to receive a 'benefit'.
Word Origin
Coined during the Meiji era as a translation for the Western legal concept of 'rights'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Japanese society, there is a strong cultural emphasis on the balance between 'kenri' (rights) and 'gimu' (obligations/duties).
Quick Quiz
すべての国民には、教育を受ける___がある。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 権利
Related Vocabulary
More society words
提起
B2To bring up or raise an issue, problem, or question for discussion or consideration. It is often used in legal contexts (raising a lawsuit) or intellectual contexts.
強靭
B2Being physically or mentally tough, resilient, and difficult to break. In modern contexts, it often refers to 'resilient' systems or infrastructure.
浸透
B1The process of a liquid gradually passing through a substance, or the gradual spread of ideas, culture, or influence. Used in IELTS for chemistry or sociology.
崩壊
B1The process of a structure or system falling down or giving way. Frequently used in IELTS to describe economic bubbles or social structures failing.
先導
B2To lead, guide, or be at the forefront of a movement, group, or trend. It implies being a pioneer or taking the initiative.
法律
A1A system of official rules that a country or community recognizes as regulating the actions of its members and may enforce by the imposition of penalties. It specifically refers to statutes and legislation passed by a governing body.
世論
B2The collective opinion of the general public on a particular issue or subject. It is a critical factor in democratic decision-making.
社会福祉
B2Statutory services provided by the state or other organizations for the assistance of people in need, such as the elderly, disabled, or poor.
排他的
B2Exclusive or closed-off. Used to describe groups, attitudes, or rights that exclude others.
特権
B2A privilege or a special right/advantage granted only to a particular person or group.
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