Is 'to do the right thing' formal or informal?

It is neutral. People use it in everyday speech, business, and serious writing.

Is it the same as 'be honest'?

Not exactly. Being honest is one part of it, but it can also mean acting fairly or responsibly.

Can I use it in essays?

Yes. It is natural in academic writing when discussing ethics or personal choice.

← Dictionary

to-do-the-right-thing

/tə duː ðə raɪt θɪŋ/

IELTSAcademic

phrase

To act in a fair, honest, or morally right way, especially when it is not easy. It often suggests choosing what is right over what is convenient.

She did the right thing and returned the wallet.
He tried to do the right thing by telling the truth.
Sometimes doing the right thing is difficult.

Adinary Nuance

To-do-the-right-thing is broader than honesty. It often means choosing the fair or proper action, even when no one is watching. It is also close to doing the right thing for someone, which can sound caring and responsible, not just truthful.

In other languages

Vietnamese: Làm điều đúng
Spanish: Hacer lo correcto
Chinese: 做正确的事
Japanese: 正しいことをする
Korean: 옳은 일을 하다

Etymology

This phrase uses common English words in a fixed expression. It became common as a simple way to talk about moral choice and responsible action.

Common phrases

do the right thingthe right thing to dodoing the right thing

Synonyms

act rightly do the right thing behave well

Frequently asked questions

Is 'to do the right thing' formal or informal?: It is neutral. People use it in everyday speech, business, and serious writing.
Is it the same as 'be honest'?: Not exactly. Being honest is one part of it, but it can also mean acting fairly or responsibly.
Can I use it in essays?: Yes. It is natural in academic writing when discussing ethics or personal choice.