# freedom of speech

**Pronunciation:** ˈfriːdəm əv spiːtʃ · FREE-dum uv SPEECH

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning

The fundamental right to express opinions and ideas publicly without government censorship or legal penalty.

## Examples

- Many democratic nations consider freedom of speech a cornerstone of a healthy society.
- The court case centered on whether the new law violated the citizens' freedom of speech.
- Advocates argue that freedom of speech must include the right to express unpopular views.

## Synonyms

- free speech — A common, slightly less formal shorthand for the full phrase.
- liberty of expression — A more formal, academic way to describe the same right.
- right to speak — Focuses on the individual entitlement rather than the abstract principle.
- freedom of expression — A broader term that includes art, clothing, and other non-verbal forms of communication.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/freedom%20of%20speech

[Browse the English learner dictionary](https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english)