free association

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

U.S. officials have floated the idea of exploring a similar arrangement, known as a compact of free association, for Greenland, the Danish-controlled island President Trump says he wants to acquire for national-security purposes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 2026

“In the abstract, could it work? Sure,” Robert Riley, a former U.S. ambassador to Micronesia, said of a free association agreement with Greenland.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 2026

The self-governing Cook Islands remain in "free association" with former colonial ruler New Zealand, which is still involved in areas such as defence and foreign affairs.

From Barron's • Dec. 2, 2025

UN rights chief Volker Turk "renews his call on security forces to desist from unnecessary force and to uphold the rights to free association and peaceful assembly," it said.

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

He also discussed in detail the pertinent aspects of our therapy sessions—especially my changing attitudes toward free association on the couch.

From "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes