自由 — meaning in English: freedom

jiyū · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for freedom

湖

mizuumi

ホール

hōru

傷

kizu

自由

jiyū

労働者

roudousha

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 自由 (jiyū) in discussions about personal liberties, rights, and choices, especially when expressing opinions on social issues or during conversations about travel and experiences. For example, one might say, '私は自由に旅行がしたい' (I want to travel freely) when discussing travel plans with friends.

Synonyms & nuances

While 自由 (jiyū) broadly means 'freedom,' another related term is 解放 (kaihō), which translates to 'liberation.' 自由 often refers to personal or social freedoms, while 解放 is more about being released from restraint or confinement. You would choose 自由 when discussing individual rights and choices.

Culture

The concept of 自由 (jiyū) is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, reflecting both individualism and the societal balance within community. Historically, the term gained prominence during the Meiji Restoration when Japan was opening up to Western influences and ideas of freedom and democracy were being introduced.

FAQ

Q.What does 自由 (jiyū) mean in English?

自由 (jiyū) translates to 'freedom' in English, referring to the state of being free or having the power to act, speak, or think without hindrance.

Q.How do you use 自由 in a sentence?

You can use 自由 in a sentence like '彼は自由に意見を言える' (He can express his opinions freely), illustrating the idea of having the freedom to speak.

Q.Are there any mistakes to avoid when using 自由?

A common mistake is to confuse 自由 with restriction-related words. Ensure you're using 自由 in contexts promoting personal choice, rather than situations where limitations are inherent.

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