“According to one’s own lights” means acting according to one’s personal beliefs, conscience, or understanding of what is right. It reflects the idea of making decisions based on individual values or judgment, rather than external rules or expectations.
Meaning and origin:
This idiom has its roots in the metaphor of “light” symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, or moral guidance. It suggests that everyone has their own inner “light” guiding their decisions, and it implies respect for personal autonomy in making choices. It is typically used in formal contexts.
Examples of usage:
In a decision-making context:
“People must act on this matter according to their own lights.”
In defending someone’s actions:
“John may have been wrong, but he did what he did according to his own lights.”
In moral or ethical discussions:
“Everyone must make their choices according to their own lights, even if others disagree.”
Why and when to use this idiom:
This idiom is useful when discussing actions or decisions based on personal principles or beliefs. English learners can use “according to one’s own lights” when they want to emphasize that someone is following their conscience or individual sense of right and wrong. It’s particularly suited for philosophical or ethical discussions.
Equivalent expressions:
- “In line with one’s beliefs” – A phrase that conveys similar meaning, emphasizing personal values.
- “Following one’s conscience” – Another way to describe acting based on personal moral principles.
- “True to oneself” – A more informal way of saying that someone is acting in accordance with their personal values.
Using “according to one’s own lights” can add depth to conversations about morality, personal choices, and independence of thought, making it a valuable expression for more formal or reflective discussions.
