自 由(じゆう)

じゆう

na-adjective, noun

free, freedom

1. free, unrestricted

Having the ability to act, speak, or think without restrictions or constraints.

自由(じゆう)な時間(じかん)がほしい。

I want free time.

自由(じゆう)に使(つか)ってください。

Please use it freely.

自由に as adverb

子供(こども)の頃(ころ)は自由(じゆう)に遊(あそ)べてよかった。

It was nice to be able to play freely when I was a child.

2. freedom, liberty (noun)

The state of being free; the power to act without constraint.

自由(じゆう)は大切(たいせつ)です。

Freedom is important.

Used as a noun

自由(じゆう)を求(もと)めて戦(たたか)う。

To fight for freedom.

言論(げんろん)の自由(じゆう)はとても大事(だいじ)だと思(おも)います。

I think freedom of speech is very important.

言論(げんろん)の自由(じゆう) = freedom of speech

自由(じゆう) functions as both a na-adjective (自由(じゆう)な) and a noun. As a na-adjective: 自由(じゆう)な (before nouns), 自由(じゆう)に (adverbially, meaning 'freely'). The kanji mean 'self' + 'reason/cause' - acting according to one's own will. Related compounds: 不自由(ふじゆう) (inconvenient, disabled), 自由席(じゆうせき) (unreserved seat).

general

Added 2026.1.7 21:03 · Revised 2026.3.5 23:21

01000/01148_jiyuu