Legal Definitions - liberal

Definition: Liberal is an adjective that can be used to describe different things:

1. A condition, state, opinion, or policy that is not restricted, narrow-minded, or intolerant. For example, a liberal policy that promotes equality and diversity.
2. A person or entity that is opposed to conservatism and advocates for expansive freedoms and individual expression. For example, the liberal party that supports progressive social and economic policies.
3. An act or gift that is generous and not stingy. For example, a liberal donation to a charity or a liberal tip to a waiter.
4. An interpretation, construction, or reading that is not strict or literal, but rather loose and flexible. For example, a liberal reading of the Constitution that allows for the evolution of rights and liberties over time.

The examples illustrate how the term liberal can have different meanings depending on the context. In general, liberal is associated with openness, tolerance, and generosity, as opposed to conservatism, which is associated with tradition, authority, and discipline. However, these are broad generalizations that do not capture the complexity and diversity of political ideologies and personal values.