Word

liberation

noun C1

/ˌlɪbəˈɹeɪʃən/

Meanings

noun

the act of freeing people or a place from control, oppression, or captivity

noun

a feeling of being released from something restrictive, such as fear or shame

Definition

Liberation is the act of freeing people from control, oppression, or captivity.

Liberation refers to the process of gaining freedom from a person, system, or situation that limits people’s rights or choices. It is often used in political and social contexts, especially when a group is freed from occupation or unfair rule. It can also describe a strong personal feeling of release from fear, guilt, or restrictive expectations.

Examples

After years of censorship, the journalist described the reform as a genuine liberation of public debate.
I felt an unexpected sense of liberation when I finally admitted my mistake and moved on.
The documentary examines how liberation movements organized under intense pressure and limited resources.
She saw the evacuation as liberation, not because it was easy, but because it restored her choices.
They celebrated the city’s liberation with quiet gatherings rather than a grand parade.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse liberation (the process of being freed) with freedom (the state of being free) and use them interchangeably.