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Definitions

free hand

NOUN
freedom to act and make decisions
Synonyms
WEAK
carte blanche free choice free course free play free scope free will freedom full scope independence latitude leeway liberty one's choice one's discretion one's initiative

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.

He has a free hand in Iran and can move in any direction.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 16, 2026

The Thai air force has had a free hand bombing targets inside Cambodia, which has limited air defences and no air force of its own to speak of.

From BBC • Dec. 18, 2025

"So I had a free hand to launch reforms, as long as Spain's unity was not endangered."

From Barron's • Nov. 5, 2025

In the prior regime, Sheridan had been given a free hand creatively and on spending, which Ellison and his new executive team had reportedly signaled might not continue in the same way.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 29, 2025

Koffi's free hand curled into a fist, but she kept walking.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray

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