Expressions used in Everyday Spoken English in Social and Professional contexts
liberal
liberal
Meaning(s)
1) rejecting traditional ways of thinking, promoting progression (usu. in society)
How to MemorizePopularity HighProfessional MediumSocial
liberal approach/outlook/understanding
Analysis
'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.
Social Examples (Basic)
The Priest was popular among young people for havinga liberal outlook on life.
I grew up with very liberal parents. We didn't have many rules.
The food was great and liberal amounts of beer were available for anyone who wanted some.
Professional Examples (Basic)
The company tooka rather liberal approach to dealing withstaff grievances.
The political party was known for havinga liberal approach to problemsin society.