The word “free” is an adjective. Meaning: Something that you do not have to pay for. Something that costs nothing.
Example: Coffee at the office is free.
In this English vocabulary class, you will learn 8 words and expressions that mean that something is FREE:
complimentary
“complimentary” is an adjective. A complimentary product or service is one that is given to someone for free.
Example: Everyone at the conference was given a complimentary lunch.
Mark works at a cinema. He gets 2 complimentary tickets and a portion of popcorn every week.
courtesy
Pronunciation: /ˈkɜː.tə.si/
“courtesy” is an adjective. “courtesy” is often used to describe a free service offered by a company.
There is a courtesy bus service between the airport and the hotel.
The garage gave me a courtesy car while mine was being repaired.
on the house
The expression “on the house” is often used in a bar or restaurant. If a waiter or barman says that something is on the house, it means that it is free.
Barman: Happy New Year. Your drinks are on the house!
Mark and Jane: Thank you very much!
free of charge
Meaning: Free. Without having to pay.
Admission to the park is free of charge.
My lessons on YouTube are available to watch free of charge.
at no cost
Meaning: Free. Without having to pay.
Students can use the computers in the library at no cost.
OAPs can use the bus service at no cost.
OAP = Old Age Pensioner
Meaning: A person over the age of 66 in the UK.
for nothing
Meaning: Get or give something for free.
He gave me a pizza for nothing.
freebie
“freebie” is a noun. It is an informal word.
Meaning: A free product or service, often given as a gift by a company.
Mark: Where did you get all of those pens?
Clare: They were freebies at the hotel!
pro bono
“pro bono” is Latin. It is a short version of “pro bono publico“
Meaning: For the public good. “pro bono” describes free services provided by a professional to a charity or to a good cause. It is mainly used by the legal profession (lawyers, barristers, attorneys, solicitors).
The lawyer is working pro bono for the charity.
