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

Are you at liberty to share what you’re up to musically now?

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

When at liberty, Ms. Minnelli wasn’t sitting alone in her room.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

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

The trial is set to continue until December and the defendant will remain at liberty, under judicial supervision.

From BBC • Sep. 8, 2025

“I’m not at liberty to give out the patients’ names.

From "Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys

Related Words

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