freedom of speech

/ˈfridəm əv spitʃ/

/ˈfridəm əv spitʃ/

Other forms: freedoms of speech

The phrase freedom of speech refers to a citizen's right to speak her own opinions without being punished by a government. In the United States, the First Amendment to the Constitution specifically protects freedom of speech.

The First Amendment right to freedom of speech is considered one of the most basic political rights by many Americans, and it has great importance to most people throughout the world. When a person has freedom of speech, he is free to communicate his ideas fully, as long as he doesn't incite violence or tell harmful lies about another person. The importance of this civil right is reflected by the fact that it's the first of the ten amendments making up the US Bill of Rights.

Definitions of freedom of speech

1. noun

   the right to express your ideas and opinions, a right guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
   synonyms: free speech

   type of:

   civil right

   right or rights belonging to a person by reason of citizenship including especially the fundamental freedoms and privileges guaranteed by the 13th and 14th amendments and subsequent acts of Congress including the right to legal and social and economic equality