Rightfully-Rightly | Commonly Confused Words

Rightfully

/ˈraɪtfəli/

In a way that is according to what is morally correct or fair.

He rightfully deserved the award for his efforts.The crown was rightfully his by birthright.She was rightfully proud of her achievements.

/ˈraɪtli/

In a manner that is correct or fair

She was rightly praised for her efforts.The decision was rightly questioned by analysts.Rightly so, the rule was changed to improve safety.

Remember that rightfully often implies entitlement or a sense of justice being served, whereas rightly refers to correctness or accuracy.
Rightfully can be associated with rightful ownership or position, like She rightfully earned the award.
Rightly suggests correctness in action or thought, such as He was rightly concerned about the safety.