freedom
/ˈfriː.dəm/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Freedom is the state of being able to act, speak, or think without unfair control. It can also mean having the right to choose your own path.
- She values freedom above everything else.
- Freedom of speech is important in a democracy.
- They fought for freedom and dignity.
Adinary Nuance
Freedom is broader than liberty in everyday English. Liberty often sounds more formal, legal, or political, while freedom is more general and common in speech. Choice is about selecting between options, but freedom means having the power to choose at all. Independence focuses more on not depending on others.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tự do
- Spanish
- libertad
- Chinese
- 自由
- Japanese
- 自由
- Korean
- 자유
Etymology
Freedom comes from Old English freodom, from freo, meaning 'free'. The word has been used in English since before the 12th century.
Common phrases
freedom of speechfreedom of choicepersonal freedomfreedom from fear
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is freedom more common than liberty?
- Yes. Freedom is more common in everyday English. Liberty is often more formal or legal.
- What is the difference between freedom and choice?
- Choice is selecting one option. Freedom means you are able to make that choice.
- Can I use freedom in business writing?
- Yes, especially in phrases like freedom to choose or freedom from restrictions.
- Is freedom a countable noun?
- Usually no. It is normally uncountable: freedom, not a freedom.