liberalization
UK: ˌlɪbərəlaɪˈzeɪʃən | US: ˌlɪbərələˈzeɪʃən
n. the process of making laws, systems, or opinions less strict
n. the removal or reduction of government restrictions, especially in economic or social policies
liberalization = liberal<free, generous> + ization<process of making>
- liberal: From Latin liber (free), originally meaning "suitable for a free person." Later evolved to imply generosity (free from restraint) and openness to change.
- ization: A suffix derived from Greek -izein (via Latin -izare), indicating the act or process of making something.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to the Latin liber (free), reflecting the core idea of freedom from constraints. In medieval Latin, liberalis described qualities of a free citizen (e.g., education, generosity). By the 18th century, "liberal" took on political and economic meanings, advocating individual freedoms. The suffix -ization (19th century) formalized it as a process—thus, liberalization emerged to describe systemic easing of restrictions, especially in post-WWII economics and social reforms.
The liberalization of trade policies boosted international commerce.
Many countries underwent economic liberalization in the 1990s.
Critics argue that rapid liberalization can destabilize local industries.
The government announced the liberalization of visa rules for tourists.
Social liberalization often accompanies technological progress.