Synonyms for

Liberal

Verb / ˈlɪˌbɜ:ʌl / Another word for liberal — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Liberal means open to new behavior or opinions and willing to discard traditional values. It can also mean generous or abundant.

Synonyms & similar words

handsome progressive broad freehanded big liberalist giving free bountiful largeminded bounteous conservative bighearted loose openhanded tolerant progressive open-minded tolerant broad-minded permissive free generous charitable magnanimous plentiful abundant ample copious bounteous lavish profuse unrestricted unlimited indulgent lenient

Synonyms by register

Formal

progressive enlightened broad-minded tolerant

Informal

open-minded laid-back cool easygoing

Literary

magnanimous benevolent

Antonyms

conservative reactionary orthodox traditionalist right-wing staid

Common collocations

  • liberal arts
  • liberal democracy
  • liberal party
  • liberal views
  • liberal education
  • liberal use
  • liberal thinking

Word family

noun liberalism
adjective liberal
adverb liberally

Usage note

The term 'liberal' can have different connotations depending on political and cultural contexts. In a political sense, it often refers to progressive ideals, while in a general sense, it implies open-mindedness or generosity.

Example sentences

  1. He has a liberal approach to parenting.
  2. She is known for her liberal use of spices in her cooking.
  3. The university has a liberal curriculum that allows students to explore different subjects.
  4. The company is known for its liberal vacation policy.
  5. The politician has a liberal stance on immigration.

Quotes

  • The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function. One should, for example, be able to see that things are hopeless yet be determined to make them otherwise. - F. Scott Fitzgerald
  • I am a liberal and I believe in the redemptive power of reason. - Christopher Hitchens
  • The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter. - Winston Churchill

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words