justly

Justly is an adverb meaning in a just or fair manner; rightly; deservedly; in accordance with justice. It is used to describe actions, judgments, or outcomes that align with moral or legal fairness.

Etymology: The adverb derives from the adjective just, which traces back to Latin iustus via Old French just. The -ly suffix was attached in Middle English to form an adverb.

Usage: Justly emphasizes conformity to moral or legal principles rather than mere social convention. It is often used with judgments, rewards, or criticisms: “The proposal was justly criticized,” or “She was justly rewarded for her efforts.” In some contexts, justly conveys a normative evaluation, whereas forms like fairly may be broader and less prescriptive.

Nuance and contexts: In philosophical or ethical discussion, justly may carry a weightier sense of justice as a standard; in legal contexts, it can signal adherence to substantive justice rather than formal legality. The term is more common in formal writing than in casual speech.

Related terms: Justice, just, justification, justify.