is free

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is free" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is available without cost or to express a lack of restrictions or obligations. Example: "The event is free for all attendees, so feel free to bring your friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The tuition is free.

The New York Times

Brooks is free, though.

The New Yorker

But she is free".

The New Yorker

The class is free.

The New York Times

The quiz is free.

The New Yorker

This is free enterprise.

The New York Times

Hers is free.

The New York Times

This is free television.

The New Yorker

Shipping is free.

The New York Times

Membership is free.

The New York Times

The app is free.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is free" to promote an offer, clearly state what is included and any limitations to avoid misleading your audience. For example, "The webinar is free, but registration is required."

Common error

Don't assume that because something "is free" it requires no effort or commitment. Free trials, for example, often require providing credit card information or opting out of automatic renewals.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is free" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a subject. It indicates that the subject is not subject to cost or constraint. Ludwig confirms this, providing numerous examples where "is free" describes services, items, or individuals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is free" is a versatile expression primarily used to denote the absence of cost or restriction. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it's grammatically sound and frequently encountered across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, context dictates the formality. Alternatives such as "is complimentary" or "is without charge" can be employed for nuanced communication. Remember, while something may be "is free", it doesn't always mean it comes without effort or commitment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is complimentary

Emphasizes that something is provided as a courtesy or gift.

is without charge

Directly states the absence of any payment requirement.

is gratis

A more formal term for 'free', implying it is given as a favor.

is at no cost

Highlights that there is no financial burden involved.

is available freely

Focuses on the unrestricted accessibility of something.

is provided free of charge

A more verbose way of saying 'free', emphasizing the act of providing.

is given away

Implies a promotional or charitable distribution.

is offered without payment

Stresses the lack of financial exchange in the offering.

is for nothing

An informal way to express that something is obtained without payment.

doesn't cost anything

A colloquial way of indicating zero expense.

FAQs

How can I use "is free" in a sentence?

You can use "is free" to indicate that something doesn't require payment, like "The software update is free for all users", or to express the absence of restrictions, like "The bird is free from its cage".

What are some alternatives to saying something "is free"?

Depending on the context, you could say it "is complimentary", "is at no cost", or "is available freely".

Is it always correct to use "is free" to describe something offered without charge?

While generally correct, consider the tone and context. In formal settings, alternatives like "is without charge" or "is gratis" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between saying something "is free" and saying it "is available freely"?

Saying something "is free" usually implies there is no monetary cost. Saying it "is available freely" emphasizes the lack of restrictions on its use or access.