# secure rights

CEFR C1 · Fixed phrase

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/secure-rights
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

to successfully get the legal permission to use, show, or sell something like a book, movie, or song.

For teachers: to obtain legal authorization or ownership regarding intellectual property or usage permissions. Often used in legal, commercial, or creative contexts to describe the successful negotiation of licensing or copyright.

## Examples

- The studio managed to secure rights to the popular novel.
- After months of negotiation, the documentary filmmaker finally secured rights to use the archival footage.
- The publishing house moved quickly to secure rights for the global distribution of the memoir before competitors could submit their bids.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by 'to' or 'for' plus a noun phrase representing the intellectual property.
- Teaching tip: focus on the verb 'secure' as a formal synonym for 'get' or 'obtain' in a competitive or legal context.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.