free speech

American  

noun

1. freedom of speech.

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free speech British  

noun

1. the right to express one's opinions publicly

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Etymology

Origin of free speech

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Example Sentences

A federal judge and the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver rejected the free speech claim.

From Los Angeles Times

The film star said he was asked by the UU representatives if he still believed in free speech, to which he replied: "Of course I do."

From BBC

His pitch -- financial services framed as free speech -- lands easily with a crowd that sees itself as culturally embattled.

From Barron's

“We don’t have free speech unless it applies to every single student group,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Mr. Lai took Beijing at its word that free speech would remain.

From The Wall Street Journal