libertad
/lee-behr-TAHD/
freedom
This image depicts libertad (freedom/liberty) as release from captivity or oppression.
libertad(Noun)
freedom
?political, social, from captivity
,liberty
?a fundamental right
release
?from jail or confinement
📝 In Action
Lucharon por la libertad de su país.
B1They fought for their country's freedom.
El prisionero recuperó su libertad después de diez años.
B1The prisoner regained his freedom after ten years.
La libertad de expresión es un derecho fundamental.
B2Freedom of speech is a fundamental right.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Feminine: 'la libertad'
In Spanish, words that end in '-tad' or '-dad' are almost always feminine. So, you'll always say 'la libertad' (the freedom) or 'mucha libertad' (a lot of freedom).
⭐ Usage Tips
For Big, Important Ideas
This meaning of 'libertad' is often used for big, important concepts like a country's freedom, human rights, or release from prison. It carries a strong, serious feeling.
In everyday contexts, libertad refers to having personal freedom and discretion to make choices.
libertad(Noun)
freedom
?personal choice, lack of restrictions
leeway
?flexibility in how to do something
,discretion
?freedom to decide
📝 In Action
En este trabajo, tengo mucha libertad para organizar mi horario.
B2In this job, I have a lot of freedom to organize my schedule.
Los padres deben darles a sus hijos cierta libertad para que aprendan.
B2Parents should give their children a certain amount of freedom so they can learn.
Me tomé la libertad de pedir un café para ti, espero que te guste.
B2I took the liberty of ordering a coffee for you, I hope you like it.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Don't use for 'free time'
Mistake: "No tengo mucha libertad esta tarde."
Correction: To talk about unscheduled time, use 'tiempo libre'. Say: 'No tengo mucho tiempo libre esta tarde.' (I don't have much free time this afternoon).
⭐ Usage Tips
For Everyday Situations
This sense of 'libertad' is perfect for talking about personal situations, like flexibility at work, creative freedom, or the independence you have in your daily life.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: libertad
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly says 'I don't have free time this afternoon'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'libertad' and 'libre'?
'Libertad' is the *idea* or *state* of being free (it's a noun, like 'freedom'). 'Libre' is the word you use to *describe* someone or something that is free (it's an adjective, like 'free'). For example, 'El pájaro es libre' (The bird is free) and 'El pájaro ama la libertad' (The bird loves freedom).
Can 'libertad' be plural, like 'libertades'?
Yes, it can. 'Libertades' means 'liberties' or 'freedoms' and is often used when talking about specific rights, like 'libertades civiles' (civil liberties).