at liberty

Idioms  

1. Free, not obligated; also, not occupied. For example, I am not at liberty to tell you the whole story, or “I ... washed when there was a basin at liberty” (Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre, 1847). This idiom is often used in a negative context, as in the first example. [First half of 1800s]

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Example Sentences

Jacques Moretti had been held in custody since January 9, while his wife has remained at liberty, under certain restrictions.

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

At the end of the trial in October, the judge – who could have allowed Sarkozy to remain at liberty pending his appeal – ruled instead that he should go to jail.

From BBC • Dec. 10, 2025

She says there have been other uses of the missile, which she isn’t at liberty to discuss.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 7, 2025

I also feel entirely at liberty with the table salt.

From Slate • Aug. 17, 2025

“I’m sorry, but the original owner of that photograph wished to remain anonymous. For personal reasons. I’m not at liberty to give the seller’s name.”

From "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng

Related Words

• able
• at large
• clear
• easy
• independent
• loose
• open
• unfettered
• unrestricted