loss of freedom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loss of freedom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations or events that result in individuals or groups being deprived of their autonomy or rights. Example: "The new regulations have led to a significant loss of freedom for citizens, sparking widespread protests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

One facet not discussed was the loss of freedom of choice with the privatization of Medicare.

The New York Times

So Mordechai has now suffered 27 years' loss of freedom for his service to the truth.

The Guardian

Despite their good intentions, Sophie and Jason are terrified of their looming loss of freedom.

The New Yorker

There would be a loss of freedom and possibility, of anonymity, now.

The New Yorker

The loss of freedom would be incredibly difficult for my mom.

The Guardian - Opinion

Always being contactable is the beginning of your loss of freedom.

The Guardian - Travel

That is the political worry about the loss of privacy: it threatens  a loss of freedom.

The New York Times

"The loss of dignity, the loss of freedom from financial worry".

The New York Times

Thucydides equates the inhabitants' loss of freedom with "enslavement"—a strong metaphor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They see prison as a last resort, and loss of freedom arduous without extra hardship.

The Economist

I didn't realize that not bringing my permanent resident card would result in my loss of freedom.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts, consider using "loss of freedom" to underscore the personal or societal impact of reduced autonomy or rights.

Common error

Avoid using "loss of freedom" in trivial situations; reserve it for scenarios where genuine autonomy or significant rights are at stake.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loss of freedom" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the state or condition of being deprived of liberty. Ludwig provides many examples where this phrase carries significant weight, particularly in legal and political discussions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "loss of freedom" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes the state of being deprived of liberty. Ludwig confirms its usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Science. While versatile, it is crucial to reserve it for situations involving tangible restrictions on autonomy or rights to avoid diluting its impact. Semantically related phrases include "deprivation of liberty" or "restriction of rights", each possessing distinct nuances. The phrase's register is typically neutral, often appearing in more formal contexts. As affirmed by Ludwig, "loss of freedom" serves as a powerful tool to convey concern and emphasize injustice, carrying substantial weight in discussions about political rights, legal constraints, and personal autonomy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deprivation of liberty

Focuses on the act of taking away someone's freedom, often by legal means.

restriction of rights

Emphasizes limitations placed on legally recognized entitlements.

curtailment of freedoms

Highlights the process of reducing or limiting various freedoms.

erosion of liberty

Suggests a gradual decline or weakening of freedom over time.

suppression of freedom

Implies a forceful prevention of freedom from being exercised or expressed.

absence of liberty

States a general lack of freedom, without specifying the cause.

infringement on autonomy

Highlights the violation of one's self-governance or independence.

loss of autonomy

Focuses on the condition of no longer being self-governing or independent.

enslavement

Indicates a state of complete control and lack of freedom, often involuntary.

oppression

Describes a state of prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "loss of freedom"?

Synonyms include "deprivation of liberty", "restriction of rights", or "curtailment of freedoms", depending on the specific context.

How does "loss of freedom" differ from "restriction of freedom"?

"Loss of freedom" implies a more complete absence of liberty, whereas "restriction of freedom" suggests that freedom is limited but not entirely taken away.

In what contexts is the phrase "loss of freedom" most appropriately used?

The phrase is commonly used in discussions related to political rights, legal constraints, personal autonomy, and social justice. It is often found in news, academic writing, and legal documents.

Can "loss of freedom" be used in a positive context?

Generally, no. The phrase inherently carries a negative connotation, as it describes the absence or removal of a valued state of autonomy and liberty. However, the phrase can be used ironically.