Which term describes the government’s right to take property for public use?

The term that describes the government's right to take private property for public use is eminent domain. This legal principle allows the government to acquire land for projects such as highways, schools, or public parks, typically requiring just compensation to be paid to the original property owner. Eminent domain is rooted in the idea that the government can serve the greater good by using private property for public benefit, balancing individual property rights with community needs.

The other terms presented relate to different legal concepts. An easement refers to the right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, landlord rights pertain to the legal entitlements of landlords in rental agreements, and escheat is the process by which property reverts to the state when an owner dies without heirs. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why eminent domain is the correct choice in this context.