The correct spelling of the phrase "free willed" is often debated, with some sources using a hyphen ("free-willed") and others not. The preferred spelling in most dictionaries, however, is without the hyphen. The phonetic transcription of this word using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /fri wɪld/, with the stress on the first syllable of "willed". This phrase is often used to describe someone who is independent and does things according to their own will or inclination.
The term "free willed" refers to the quality or state of possessing the ability to make choices or decisions independently, without constraints or coercion from external forces. It pertains to an individual's capacity to act according to their own desires, instincts, or beliefs, without being unduly influenced or controlled by external factors.
A person who is considered to be "free willed" is someone who exercises their autonomy and has the liberty to choose their course of action, thought, or behavior, guided by their own judgment, rather than being solely determined or predetermined by external circumstances or preexisting conditions.
The concept of being "free willed" implies the absence of deterministic factors that would determine an individual's choices or behavior in an entirely predictable or inevitable manner. It encompasses the idea that humans have the capability to exercise their will, make decisions, and shape their own destiny to a certain degree.
However, it is important to note that the extent to which individuals possess absolute free will can be subject to philosophical debates and interpretations, as it is influenced by various factors such as social, cultural, and environmental conditions or personal beliefs and values. The concept of "free willed" therefore represents a complex and multifaceted notion, intertwining notions of autonomy, volition, and self-determination.
The term "free-willed" is derived from the combination of two words: "free" and "willed".
1. "Free" – The word "free" traces its origins back to Old English "freo" or "fre", which means "exempt from" or "not in bondage". It is related to the German word "frei" and the Dutch word "vrij". Over time, "free" came to represent the absence of constraints, limitations, or obligations.
2. "Willed" – The term "willed" is derived from the verb "will", which has its roots in Old English "willan". In its simplest form, "will" means to wish, desire, or want. When "willed" is used as an adjective, it implies that something is the outcome of deliberate choice or volition.