human right
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human right
A fundamental right, grounded morally or legally, that belongs to every human being by nature, regardless of origin, gender, or religion. Often used in the plural.
Das Recht auf Leben und Freiheit ist ein universelles Menschenrecht.
The right to life and freedom is a universal human right.
The word is clearly composed of 'der Mensch' (human being/person) and 'das Recht' (right/law). The '-en-' is a linking element that connects the two words. So literally, it is a right for a human being.
Meinungsfreiheit ist ein wichtiges Menschenrecht.
Freedom of speech is an important human right.
Although the singular exists, the word is most commonly used in the plural: 'die Menschenrechte' (human rights). This usually refers to the total set of rights that belong to all people.
Die Konferenz thematisierte die weltweite Lage der Menschenrechte.
The conference addressed the worldwide situation of human rights.
In political or ethical contexts, 'Menschenrecht(e)' (human right(s)) is often combined with verbs such as 'achten' (to respect), 'verletzen' (to violate), 'verteidigen' (to defend), or 'einfordern' (to demand/claim).
Diktaturen verletzen systematisch die Menschenrechte ihrer Bürger.
Dictatorships systematically violate the human rights of their citizens.
fundamental right
'das Menschenrecht' and 'das Grundrecht' both refer to very important rights. They can be confused because many fundamental rights can also be human rights. However, 'Menschenrecht' is more general: it applies to every human being, regardless of the state or nationality. 'Grundrecht' is more closely connected to the constitution of a particular state and protects the individual vis-à-vis that state. When talking about the rights of all people worldwide, 'Menschenrecht' is more natural. When talking about rights in a constitution, 'Grundrecht' is more precise.
Das Recht auf Leben ist ein wichtiges Menschenrecht.
The right to life is an important human right.
Die Meinungsfreiheit ist in Deutschland ein Grundrecht.
Freedom of expression is a fundamental right in Germany.