Liberal

Definition

Open to new ideas; favoring individual freedom and reform; generous.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɪbərəl/
• Respelling: LIB-er-uhl (with "LIB" as in "rib," "er" as in "her," and "uhl" as in "full")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɪbərəl/
• Respelling: LIB-uh-ruhl (with "LIB" as in "rib," "uh" as in "sofa," and "ruhl" as in "full")

In both dialects, "liberal" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "LIB." The American pronunciation includes a pronounced "er" sound, while the British pronunciation has a softer "uh" sound in the middle.

Etymology

The term "liberal" derives from the Old French "liberal", from Latin "liberalis", which means "noble, gracious, munificent, generous", from "liber", meaning 'free'.

Derivatives

• Liberalism
• Liberalize
• Liberalization
• Liberally
• Liberalist

Synonyms

• Progressive
• Open-minded
• Permissive

Antonyms

• Conservative
• Orthodox
• Restrictive

Usage

"Liberal" is commonly used in political contexts to describe individuals, parties, or policies that prioritize individual liberties, social equality, and government intervention to address social and economic issues. It is also used more broadly to denote a willingness to embrace change and new ideas.

Related Terms

• Progressive: Favoring or promoting change or innovation.
• Democracy: A system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives.
• Libertarian: Advocating minimal state intervention in the lives of citizens.

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Liberal (Adjective): Open to new behavior or opinions and willing to discard traditional values.
  • Example: "She has a liberal attitude towards education, advocating for student choice and creativity."

• Liberal (Adjective): Favorable to or respectful of individual rights and freedoms.
  • Example: "Liberal policies often emphasize the protection of civil liberties."

• Liberal (Adjective): (In a political context) Supporting policies that are socially progressive and promote social welfare.
  • Example: "The liberal candidate proposed a comprehensive healthcare reform."

Noun

• Liberal (Noun): A person who advocates for liberal views, especially in politics.
  • Example: "Liberals often support measures to reduce economic inequality and promote social justice."