自由

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 自由 is read as じゆう and is a noun and na-adjective for freedom or the ability to choose without restraint; its adverbial form takes に.
• Basic usage: Spending a day off freely appears in 自由に過ごす, while referring to freedom of expression appears in 意見を述べる自由.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Forms by word class
  • Use 自由に過ごす for doing something freely and 意見を述べる自由 for freedom as a right. Distinguish this from 勝手, which can imply acting as one pleases.