civil liberties

Cultural  

1. In general, the rights to freedom of thought, expression, and action, and the protection of these rights from government interference or restriction. Civil liberties are the hallmark of liberal, democratic “free” societies. In the United States, the Bill of Rights guarantees a variety of civil liberties, most notably freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and freedom of speech, expressed in the First Amendment (see also First Amendment). (See civil rights.)

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civil liberties

But following a security clampdown and serious injuries to some protesters, the movement broadened its demands to include greater protection of civil liberties and the right to protest.

From Barron's ● Oct. 31, 2026

Our civil liberties have never been as commuted .

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 19, 2026

For some Americans, the attacks have become inseparable from the wars and broader official willingness to sacrifice civil liberties in the name of security that followed.

From Salon ● Sep. 8, 2026

In his first year in office, more than one civil liberties advocate has taken issue with his approach.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 28, 2026

You don’t agree that the question of human rights, of civil liberties, is a matter of vital importance to the African people?

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

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Related Words

• freedom
• freedom of religion
• freedom of speech
• human rights

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