Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Belonging to or supporting the conservative or reactionary section of a political party or system: The term "right-wing" describes political beliefs, policies, or groups that generally emphasize tradition, limited government intervention in the economy, individual responsibility, and strong national defense. It is the opposite of "left-wing."

Usage

• The term is primarily used as a modifier before a noun to describe political entities, ideologies, or supporters.
• It can be used in both specific political contexts and in broader social commentary.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The newspaper is known for its right-wing editorial stance.
  • Right-wing parties gained seats in the recent election.
  • He holds strong right-wing views on economic policy.

Advanced Usage

• "The right wing" (noun phrase): When used with the definite article "the," it functions as a collective noun referring to the conservative faction as a whole.
  • The proposal was criticized by the right wing of the party.
• Hyphenation: The term is almost always hyphenated when used as a compound adjective ("right-wing candidate"). The noun phrase is often written without a hyphen ("the right wing").

Variants and Related Words

• Right-winger (noun): An individual who holds right-wing political views.
  • He was labeled a right-winger by his opponents.
• Rightist (noun/adjective): A synonym for a right-wing person or pertaining to the right wing. It can sometimes carry a stronger ideological connotation.

Synonyms

• Conservative: Often used interchangeably, though "conservative" can be broader, encompassing social and cultural attitudes beyond formal politics.
• Reactionary: Refers to someone who opposes political or social liberalization or reform, seeking a return to a previous state. This term is more extreme and often pejorative.

Antonyms

• Left-wing: Belonging to or supporting the liberal or radical section of a political party or system.
• Liberal: Favoring policies that promote social and political change, often involving greater government intervention in the economy and social welfare.

Related Idioms/Phrases

• On the right wing: Used to describe someone's position within a political spectrum or organization.
  • Politically, she is firmly on the right wing.

Adjective

1. believing in or supporting tenets of the political right