give someone his rights
read someone his rights
The act of advising arrested criminals that they have the right to remain silent and that everything they say can be held against them in a court of law; that they have the right to the presence of an attorney during questioning and that if they can't afford one and request it, an attorney will be appointed for them by the State.
The cops gave Smith his rights immediately after the arrest.
To sever a relationship by telling someone that he or she can go and see a divorce lawyer or the like.
Sue gave Mike his rights before she slammed the door in his face.
have the right-of-way
To have priority in proceeding in traffic on a public highway while other vehicles must yield and wait.
"Go ahead," he said. "We have the right-of-way at this intersection."
heart is in the right place
have one's heart in the right place
To be kind-hearted, sympathetic or well-meaning; have good intentions.
All the tramps and stray dogs in the neighborhood knew that Mrs. Brown's heart was in the right place.
Tom looks very rough but his heart is in the right place.
in one's right mind
Accountable; sane and sober.
If you were in your right mind, you wouldn't be saying such stupid things to our boss.
in the right
With moral or legal right or truth on your side; in agreement with justice, truth, or fact; correct.
When the cars collided, John was clearly in the right.
In going before his wife down the stairs, Mr. Franklin was in the right.
In many disputes, it is hard to say who is in the right.
let one's left hand know what one's right hand is doing
To make a show of your kindness or help to others. Used in the negative.
The Bible tells us not to let the left hand know what the right hand is doing when we give to the poor.
To let everyone taking part in something know what each is doing; encourage cooperation in working. Often used in the negative.
Tom told Fred and Bill to meet him in town, but he forgot to tell them where. Next time he'll let his left hand know what his right hand is doing.
Our team lost today because the coach and captain did not let the left hand know what the right was doing, and the players were all mixed up.
play one's cards right
play one's cards well
To use abilities and opportunities so as to be successful; act cleverly; make the best use of your place or skills.
That millionaire started with very little but showed a skill in playing his cards right.
People liked Harold, and he played his cards well - and soon he began to get ahead rapidly.
put to rights
set to rights
To put in good order; clean up.
It took the company a long time to put the office to rights after the fire.
It took Mrs. Smith an hour to set the room to rights after the party.