réttlæta

Réttláta is an Icelandic verb meaning to authorize, legitimize, or license something under law or official regulation. The term is used in legal and administrative contexts to denote the granting of legal permission, rights, or status necessary to proceed with a specific activity or entity.

Etymology and nuance: The word combines rétt (law, right) with láta (to let, allow). The form conveys making something lawful or legitimate through formal decision or regulation, rather than through informal consent.

Usage and scope: In Icelandic administrative law, authorities may réttláta activities, facilities, professions, or organizational status by issuing licenses, certificates, or other legal instruments. The act often signals compliance with statutory criteria and confers recognized legal standing. The term appears primarily in formal or legal prose rather than everyday speech.

Examples and nuance: A government agency might réttláta the operation of a clinic under health regulations, or réttláta a new business model as permitted by commercial law. In practice, the exact instruments used for réttláta can include licenses, permits, or statutory recognitions (leyfi, heimild).

See also: Licensing, Permits, Legal authorization, Icelandic administrative law, Rights.