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Synonyms

free speech

American  

free speech British  

noun

  1. the right to express one's opinions publicly

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of free speech

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Togo has faced criticism for clamping down on free speech, with several foreign journalists detained in recent years.

From BBC Aug. 20, 2026

Plus, the House of Mouse was already changing up its rhetorical tack to mount a fulsome self-defense on free speech and free press grounds.

From Slate Aug. 18, 2026

In a New York court filing, four groups including Human Rights Watch said the sanctions should be struck down as they violate laws including First Amendment free speech protections.

From Barron's Aug. 11, 2026

Some of these design features involve industry-wide problems and free speech issues, the ruling says.

From Barron's Aug. 7, 2026

The president of the union had made a statement on WGN about the case and the importance of supporting free speech and academic freedom.

From "The Landry News" by Andrew Clements

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