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Thread: I have a right to speak. VS. I have the right to speak.

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    sky3120's Avatar
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    Default I have a right to speak. VS. I have the right to speak.

    I have a right to speak. VS. I have the right to speak.

    I have heard the second but can I also say the first one in some context? Or 'right' is used with 'the' all the time? Or the different usage of "a" and "the" applies to the sentences as well?

    Thank you so much as usual and have a good and safe day.

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    SoothingDave is offline VIP Member
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    Default Re: I have a right to speak. VS. I have the right to speak.

    Yes, in some contexts.
    Odessa Dawn, bhaisahab and anhnha like this.

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    Tdol is offline Editor, UsingEnglish.com
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    Default Re: I have a right to speak. VS. I have the right to speak.

    If the right is granted by something specific, like rule 17 of the club regulations, then the definite article is more likely IMO.
    anhnha and sky3120 like this.

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