Public domain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Public domain" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to works that are free for use by anyone without copyright restrictions. For example, "The book is in the public domain, so anyone can access it for free." Alternative expressions include "free to use" and "not copyrighted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Public domain does not apply to Rembrandt.

The New York Times - Arts

Public domain works available free from etext.virginia.edu/ebooks.edu/ebooks

The New York Times - Tech

Public domain image created by Jason Benjamin.

TechCrunch

Public Domain.

Vice

(Public domain title).

Huffington Post

Public Domain: NASA, 2011.

Huffington Post

Public Domain, Wikimedia Commons.

Huffington Post

It's in the public domain.

Independent

This is public property and public domain.

The New York Times

This information is in the public domain.

The New Yorker

It's all license or public domain.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the term "Public domain", clearly specify what falls under this designation to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify if it refers to images, text, or other media.

Common error

Avoid assuming all content found online is in the "Public domain". Always verify the copyright status before using any material.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Public domain" functions primarily as a noun, identifying the status of intellectual property (like books, music, or images) that are not protected by copyright or patent laws. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a well-understood term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Public domain" refers to works or information free from copyright restrictions, allowing unrestricted use by anyone. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used, primarily in neutral contexts like news and media, science, and formal communication. When writing about copyright or intellectual property, understanding the meaning of "Public domain" is essential. When using this term, writers should avoid the common mistake of overgeneralizing the "Public domain" status by being explicit about what falls under this designation. Alternatives like "freely available" or "copyright-free" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Copyright-free

Specifically indicates the absence of copyright protection.

Without copyright protection

Explicitly states the lack of legal protection.

Not subject to copyright

Similar to copyright-free, but more formal.

Freely available

Emphasizes the lack of cost or restrictions on obtaining something.

Openly accessible

Highlights the ease and transparency of access.

Unrestricted access

Focuses on the absence of limitations or barriers to entry.

Accessible to everyone

Highlights the inclusivity of access.

In the commons

Implies a community ownership or shared resource.

In the public sphere

Indicates that something is part of public knowledge or discourse.

Free for all

Suggests widespread and unregulated use.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is in the "Public domain"?

When a work is in the "Public domain", it means it's free for anyone to use without permission from a copyright holder. This typically happens when the copyright has expired, or the work was never protected by copyright.

How can I tell if something is in the "Public domain"?

Determining if something is in the "Public domain" can be complex, but generally, works published before 1929 in the United States are now in the "Public domain". You can also check copyright notices or search for licensing information.

What are some examples of works in the "Public domain"?

Many classic books, such as "Pride and Prejudice" and older films are in the "Public domain". Also, works created by the U.S. federal government are typically in the "Public domain".

What is the difference between "Public domain" and "Creative Commons"?

"Public domain" means there are no copyright restrictions at all. "Creative Commons", on the other hand, is a licensing system that allows copyright holders to grant certain permissions for use while retaining some rights.