Meaning & use
being a free spirit
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
The state or habit of living independently, following your own desires, and not being controlled by social rules.
Grammar: Used as a noun phrase after 'being' or as a description: Being a free spirit has its costs.
Patterns
- being a free spirit
- the life of a free spirit
Being a free spirit means she often changes plans at the last minute.
He loves being a free spirit and traveling without a schedule.
Being a free spirit can be lonely when everyone else settles down.
Common combinations
- a true free spirit
- She's a true free spirit who never follows the crowd.
- the life of a free spirit
- The life of a free spirit isn't always easy.
- being a free spirit
- Being a free spirit is part of her charm.
Synonyms and how they differ
- nonconformist
- More formal and often critical; a free spirit sounds positive and carefree.
- bohemian
- Suggests an artistic, unconventional lifestyle, not just independence.
Opposites
Commonly confused: being a free spirit or free-spirited?
being a free spirit vs free-spirited
This is the adjective form: a free-spirited person. 'Being a free spirit' is the noun phrase.
Practice
Which sentence best shows the meaning of 'being a free spirit'?
Choose one answer.
A free spirit acts independently and unconventionally. The other options describe conformity, anxiety about opinion, or staying put.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “being a free spirit”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.