liberal

Meaning(s)

1. rejecting traditional ways of thinking, promoting progression (usu. in society)

Popularity

High

Professional

Medium

Social

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liberal approach/outlook/understanding

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 'Liberal' can be used as an adjective to describe a person who is open to new ways of thinking or embraces new ideas and opinions: "I'm sending my son to this school because it's liberal in its thinking." As a noun, it is used to describe a person who subscribes to the political philosophy of Liberalism (based in equality, liberty and consent of the governed). "Ask him for his views on the subject - he is a liberal man." Liberal can also mean 'broad, or widely understood' such as a 'liberal education', which means a broad education in many areas of knowledge. A 'liberal understanding' is a broad understanding of something. This word can also be used to talk about a generous or large amount: "A liberal serving of wine accompanied the meal." "She was too liberal in sharing her opinions. She should have kept them to herself." This is a word you will hear often in political discussions, but also in professional and social contexts.

Check Icon Social Examples (Basic)

  1. The Priest was popular among young people for having a liberal outlook on life.
  2. I grew up with very liberal parents. We didn't have many rules.
  3. The food was great and liberal amounts of beer were available for anyone who wanted some.

Check Icon Professional Examples (Basic)

  1. The company took a rather liberal approach to dealing with staff grievances.
  2. The political party was known for having a liberal approach to problems in society.

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