free-thinker (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/friːˈθɪŋkər/

Meaning & Usage

The term "free-thinker" refers to a person who forms their opinions based on reason, logic, and empirical evidence rather than accepting established doctrines or beliefs, especially in religious or political contexts. Free-thinkers value critical thought and often challenge conventional ideas.

In the English language, "free-thinker" is typically used in discussions about philosophy, religion, and social issues. It is more frequently encountered in written contexts, such as articles, essays, and books, although it can also appear in oral discussions.

Example Sentences

1. A true free-thinker questions the traditional beliefs that society imposes on them.
   Un verdadero libre pensador cuestiona las creencias tradicionales que la sociedad les impone.

2. Many free-thinkers advocate for secularism in education and governance.
   Muchos libre pensadores abogan por el secularismo en la educación y la gobernanza.

3. The conference aimed to bring together free-thinkers from around the world to discuss important social issues.
   La conferencia tenía como objetivo reunir a libre pensadores de todo el mundo para discutir problemas sociales importantes.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "free-thinker" is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, but it does evoke certain phrases that relate to independent thought or enlightenment. Here are some relevant idioms and their usage:

1. To think outside the box

2. John always thinks outside the box, which is why he is considered a free-thinker in the industry.
   John siempre piensa fuera de lo convencional, por lo que es considerado un libre pensador en la industria.

3. Break free from convention

4. As a free-thinker, she chose to break free from convention and follow her own path.
   Como libre pensadora, eligió liberarse de la convención y seguir su propio camino.

5. Challenge the status quo

6. Free-thinkers often challenge the status quo and inspire change in society.
   Los libre pensadores a menudo desafían el statu quo e inspiran cambios en la sociedad.

7. March to the beat of one's own drum

8. To be a free-thinker means to march to the beat of one's own drum, regardless of what others say.
   Ser un libre pensador significa marchar al ritmo de su propio tambor, sin importar lo que digan los demás.

Etymology

The term "free-thinker" can be traced back to the late 17th century. The prefix "free" relates to being unrestricted or independent, while "thinker" derives from the verb "think," which has Old English roots. The combination implies a person who thinks freely, without the constraints of dogma.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms:
- Independent thinker
- Nonconformist
- Skeptic

Antonyms:
- Follower
- Conformist
- Dogmatist

This comprehensive overview of "free-thinker" provides insights into its meaning, usage, and cultural significance in English.