free-will
/ˌfriːˈwɪl/ IELTSAcademic
noun
The power to choose what you do, without being fully controlled by fate, God, or outside forces. It is often used in philosophy, religion, and discussion about human responsibility.
- Do humans really have free will?
- She believes free will shapes every choice.
- The book questions whether free will exists.
Adinary Nuance
Free will is stronger and more specific than choice or decision. Use it when you mean the deep idea that people can act freely, not just pick between options. It often appears in serious writing about philosophy, religion, and responsibility.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- ý chí tự do
- Spanish
- libre albedrío
- Chinese
- 自由意志
- Japanese
- 自由意志
- Korean
- 자유 의지
Etymology
Free will comes from Old English freo and willa, meaning a choice that is not forced. The phrase has been used in English since the Middle Ages, especially in religion and philosophy.
Common phrases
free will and fateexercise free willthe question of free willhave free will
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is free will the same as choice?
- Not exactly. Choice is a single decision, while free will is the power to make choices freely.
- Is free will a formal word?
- Yes. It is common in philosophy, religion, and formal writing.
- Can I use free will in everyday English?
- Yes, but it sounds thoughtful or serious, not casual.