Liberty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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liberty
[ˈlɪbər.ti ]
Definitions
freedom
The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views.
Synonyms
autonomy, freedom, independence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| liberty |
Used in formal or political contexts to refer to the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority.
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| freedom |
A broad term used to describe the power or right to act, speak, or think without hindrance or restraint. It is often used in everyday language and inspirational contexts.
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| independence |
Refers to the state of being free from outside control or not being dependent on someone else. It is often used in political contexts or personal growth situations.
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| autonomy |
Often used to describe self-governance or self-determination, typically referring to regions, organizations, or individuals who have the right to make their own decisions.
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Examples of usage
- Individuals have the liberty to express their opinions without fear of retaliation.
- She fought for the liberty of all citizens to have equal rights and opportunities.
legal
The power or scope to act as one pleases within the bounds of law or morality.
Synonyms
entitlement, freedom, privilege.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| liberty |
Typically used in legal, political, or formal contexts to refer to the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views.
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| freedom |
Used broadly and informally to denote the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.
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| privilege |
Often used to describe a special right, advantage, or immunity granted or available only to a particular person or group.
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| entitlement |
Often used in contexts where someone believes they deserve certain rights or benefits, sometimes without having earned them. It can carry a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The accused was deprived of his liberty and detained without trial.
- The constitution guarantees the liberty of every citizen to practice their religion freely.
American history
A symbol of the United States, representing freedom and democracy.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| liberty |
Used when referring to the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions. Commonly used in political or philosophical discussions.
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| symbol |
A general term for anything that represents something else, often used in a broad range of contexts from literature to everyday life.
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| icon |
Used for something or someone widely recognized and revered, often in popular culture or technology. Can also refer to small graphical representations in computing.
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| emblem |
Refers to a visible symbol representing a larger concept, group, or nation, often used in formal or official contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor is a famous landmark.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'libertas,' meaning 'freedom' or 'the state of being free.'
- Liberty has been a core principle since ancient Greece, where citizens valued their ability to participate in government.
- The idea of liberty was central to the American Revolution, leading to the famous phrase 'life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness' in the Declaration of Independence.
Political Context
- Liberty is often seen as a fundamental human right, promoting the idea that everyone should have the freedom to make their own choices.
- The concept varies globally; some places prioritize individual liberty, while others focus on collective liberty or societal welfare.
- Political philosophy debates around liberty often contrast 'negative liberty' (freedom from interference) with 'positive liberty' (freedom to achieve one's potential).
Literature
- Liberty is a common theme in literature, symbolizing hope and the struggle against oppression, seen in works like '1984' by George Orwell.
- Authors often explore the tension between liberty and authority, questioning how much freedom individuals should have in society.
- The phrase 'Give me liberty, or give me death!' from Patrick Henry's speech captures the passion associated with the fight for freedom.
Pop Culture
- Statue of Liberty in New York City is an iconic symbol of freedom, gifted by France to celebrate democracy and liberty.
- In movies, the theme of liberty is often represented through characters fighting against tyrants or oppressive regimes.
- Songs like 'Born Free' by Kid Rock and 'Redemption Song' by Bob Marley celebrate the spirit of liberty and self-determination.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like John Stuart Mill argued that liberty is vital for personal development and societal progress.
- The challenge of finding a balance between individual liberty and the rights of others is a key topic in moral philosophy.
- Liberty is often discussed in relation to justice and equality, questioning how much freedom should come with responsibility.
Origin of 'liberty'
The word 'liberty' originated from the Latin word 'libertas', which means freedom or independence. It has been a fundamental concept in various political and philosophical movements throughout history. The idea of liberty has been central to the development of democratic societies, emphasizing individual rights and freedoms. The Statue of Liberty in New York City is a famous symbol of liberty and welcoming immigrants to the United States. The concept of liberty continues to be a core value in modern societies, promoting equality, justice, and human rights.