Take Liberties – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever had a coworker speak for you in a meeting without asking? Or seen a movie that changed a true story so much it felt unfair? In English, you might say they took liberties. This phrase describes when someone acts freely—often in a way that oversteps boundaries, ignores rules, or assumes permission they weren’t given.
What Does “Take Liberties” Mean?
“Take liberties” means to do something without permission, especially when it involves changing facts, making assumptions, or acting in a way that’s inappropriate or disrespectful. It often carries a negative tone—it’s not about creativity, but about going too far. Think of it like borrowing someone’s car and repainting it: you had access, but you overstepped.
When to Use It
Use “take liberties” in critical, cautionary, or reflective conversations:
• When someone changes facts or details: “The biopic took liberties with the timeline.”
• In work or personal boundaries: “Don’t take liberties with my schedule.”
• When someone assumes too much: “He took liberties and booked the venue without asking.”
It’s neutral to slightly formal—common in reviews, feedback, and honest discussions. Avoid it in very casual chats unless pointing out overreach.
Example Sentences
- The author took liberties with historical facts to make the story more dramatic.
- I don’t mind if you borrow my notes—but don’t take liberties with my answers.
- She took liberties by editing my email before sending it. That’s not okay.
- Restaurants sometimes take liberties with traditional recipes—and not always for the better.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Did you see the new documentary about Einstein?”
Jamie: “Yeah—it took too many liberties. He never actually said that quote!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t confuse “take liberties” with “take freedom” or “be creative.” The phrase implies impropriety, not innovation. Also, it’s almost always used in the past tense or with “has/have taken liberties”—not as a suggestion (“Don’t take liberties!” is correct; “Let’s take liberties!” sounds wrong unless ironic).
❌ Don’t say: “I took liberties and made a great salad!” (Unless you changed someone else’s recipe without asking—and even then, it’s odd.)
✅ Do say: “The translator took liberties with the original poem.”
✅ Do say: “Please don’t take liberties with my work.”
Practice Tip
Next time you notice someone changing details, speaking for you, or assuming too much, say: “They’re taking liberties.” Using the phrase when boundaries are crossed builds precise, natural fluency.
Final Note
Now you can use “take liberties” to call out overreach with clarity and nuance—just like native speakers do. It’s a phrase full of respect for boundaries, used when people go too far. Keep listening for it in film reviews, workplace feedback, and honest conversations. You’re not just learning English—you’re learning how people protect what’s theirs. Keep going—you’ve got this!
