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中文
自由 — meaning in English: free
zìyóu · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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liberty
同事
tóngshì
合并
hébìng
自由
zìyóu
兴趣
xìngqù
服务器
fúwùqì
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use '自由' in discussions about personal freedoms, such as during conversations about human rights, travel, or lifestyle choices. For instance, someone might say, '我想要一个自由的生活,' which means 'I want a free life,' when expressing a desire for independence and personal choice.
Synonyms & nuances
'自由' is similar to '随意' (suíyì), meaning 'as you wish' or 'at will,' but '自由' emphasizes a more profound sense of freedom and autonomy, often in a socio-political context. Use '自由' when discussing freedoms that have broader implications, such as rights or personal liberties, whereas '随意' is more appropriate for casual choices.
Culture
'自由' has deep cultural significance in Chinese society, particularly in the context of philosophical thought. Etymologically, the character '自' (zì) means 'self' and '由' (yóu) conveys the sense of 'reason' or 'cause,' together implying a state of being that is determined by oneself. This reflects the value placed on individual agency in personal and societal contexts, especially during the reform period in the late 20th century.
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