have a/the right to (something)

have a/the right to (something)

To have the just or legal permission, privilege, or authority to have or own something. Everyone has a right to food, shelter, and water, but unfortunately, not everyone in this country gets them. I have the right to my own opinions, so don't try to tell me how to think!See also: have, right

have a right to

Have a just or legal claim on something or on some action, as in The accused has a right to legal counsel. The related have the right to is often used with infinitives, as in You have the right to remain silent. [Late 1300s] The antonym, dating from the mid-1600s, is have no right to, as in He has no right to push you aside. Also see in the right. See also: have, right