das Grundrecht, -e
fundamental right
Ein geschütztes Recht, das jede Person von Geburt an hat und das den Staat daran hindert, Menschen unfair zu behandeln oder ihre Freiheit zu verletzen.
Definition & meaning
A Grundrecht is a fundamental right or constitutional right. These are essential rights and freedoms guaranteed to individuals by a state’s constitution, which the government is obligated to respect and protect.
In Germany, the Grundrechte are anchored in the first 19 articles of the "Grundgesetz" (Basic Law). They are divided into two main categories:
- Human rights (Menschenrechte): Rights that apply to every human being regardless of their nationality, such as the right to life or human dignity.
- Civil rights (Bürgerrechte): Rights that apply specifically to citizens of the state, such as the right to vote or freedom of assembly.
Grammar & Word origin
The word is a neuter compound noun: das Grundrecht. The plural form is die Grundrechte.
It consists of two parts:
Literally, it translates to "foundation right" or "basic right," signifying that these laws form the very base of the legal system.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Menschenrecht (Human right)
- Bürgerrecht (Civil right)
- Freiheitsrecht (Right to liberty)
- Verfassungsrecht (Constitutional right)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Jedes Grundrecht ist wichtig für die Gesellschaft.noun
Every fundamental right is important for society.
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