Words / B1

LIB-uh-r-uh-l/ˈlɪbərəl/

Liberal can mean supporting individual freedom and social change, or generous (a liberal amount). The Liberal Democrats are a UK party. Conservative is a common political opposite. Liberal arts means a broad humanities course, not the party. Do not capitalise unless you mean the party.

Meaning

Supporting individual freedom and social change; also generous; Liberal Democrats are a UK party.

Examples

• “A liberal arts year is not the same as the Liberal Democrats.”
• “A liberal interpretation of the rule still needs the signature.”

Good to know

liberal + noun (policy, arts). Party: Liberal Democrats (capitals). Generous: a liberal amount. Opposite (politics): conservative. Politics / prospectuses.

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