liberty

take liberties

1. to change something, especially a piece of writing, in a way that people disagree with. Whoever wrote the screenplay for the film took great liberties with the original text of the novel. (usually + with)

2. to be too friendly to someone in a way that shows a lack of respect, especially in a sexual way. Don't let him take liberties with you. (often + with)

See also: take

take the liberty of doing something (formal)

to do something that will have an effect on someone else without asking their permission. I took the liberty of reserving us two seats at the conference. I hope that's all right by you. (usually in past tenses)

See also: take

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at liberty

able or allowed to do something. I'm not at liberty to discuss this with you.

Usage notes: often used in a negative statement, as in the example

take liberties (with someone)

to be friendly with another person for your own benefit. The head of our department believed that everyone there would take liberties with her if she let them.

See also: take

take liberties with something

to change something to suit your needs, esp. when writing a story or book. The play takes liberties with history, but it brings to life the people from so long ago.

See also: take

take the liberty of doing something

to do something without first getting someone's approval. I've taken the liberty of reserving a seat for you on tomorrow morning's flight to New York.

See also: take