Word
liberals
Phoneticslib·er·als, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɫɪˌbɝəɫz/
UK/lˈɪbəɹəlz/
Definitions
01political/social group
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun
n. people who believe in personal freedom, social change, and using the government to help solve social problems.
n. individuals who advocate for political and social reform, typically supporting civil liberties, social justice, and government intervention in the economy.
“Many liberals in the city voted for the new environmental protection law.”
“The debate highlighted the growing divide between fiscal conservatives and social liberals regarding the allocation of the municipal budget.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02political party members
B2 · Upper Intermediate Plural noun
n. members or supporters of a specific political group called the Liberal Party.
n. members or supporters of a specific political party named the Liberal Party, such as those in the UK, Canada, or Australia.
“The Liberals won several seats in the recent local elections.”
“The Liberals maintained their parliamentary majority despite a significant challenge from the opposition during the spring session.”
Usage
Often capitalised as 'Liberals' when referring to a specific party.
Teaching tip
Note that the political meaning of 'Liberal' varies by country; for example, the Liberal Party of Australia is considered centre-right, while in the US, 'liberal' is associated with the left.
Real-World Examples
“Black Power would not hold out a hand asking white liberals for charity.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/liberals