liberalize (C1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈlɪbərəlaɪz/

Definition

To make laws or policies less strict, especially in economic or social matters, allowing more freedom.

Examples

• The country began to liberalize its economy after decades of strict control.

• Many argue that the government should liberalize immigration laws.

• New regulations were introduced to liberalize the telecommunications market.

How to Use liberalize

liberalize something (prepositional phrase)

To make a specific thing (law, policy, economy, market) less strict or restrictive. — "The aim is to liberalize the financial sector."

liberalize [social/economic] issues (collocation)

To make approaches to social or economic matters more open and less controlled. — "The party platform includes proposals to liberalize abortion laws."

Synonyms of liberalize

Words with a similar meaning to liberalize:

• loosen
• deregulate
• emancipate
• liberate

Antonyms of liberalize

Words with the opposite meaning to liberalize:

• restrict
• regulate
• tighten

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