Definition

1. Noun:
   • An economic doctrine or policy of non-interference: "laissez faire" refers to the principle that governments should refrain from intervening in or regulating commercial and economic affairs, allowing market forces to operate freely.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The country's economic policy was based on strict laissez faire.
  • Advocates of laissez faire argue that minimal government intervention leads to greater economic efficiency.

Advanced Usage

• "laissez-faire attitude/approach": A general attitude of non-interference, often extended beyond economics to describe a hands-off style in management, parenting, or other areas.

  • The manager's laissez-faire approach meant employees had great autonomy but little direction.

• "laissez-faire capitalism": An economic system characterized by private ownership and minimal government regulation.

  • The era was marked by laissez-faire capitalism and rapid industrial growth.

Variants and Related Words

• Laissez-faire (adjective): Used to describe a policy or attitude of non-interference.

  • He has a laissez-faire management style.

• Laissez-faireism (noun, less common): The principles or system of laissez faire.

Synonyms

• Free-market: Relating to an economic system with little government control.
• Non-intervention: The principle or practice of not becoming involved in the affairs of others.
• Free enterprise: An economic system where private business operates with minimal government restriction.

Antonyms

• Statism: A political system where the state has substantial control over social and economic affairs.
• Interventionism: The policy or practice of intervening, especially by a government in its domestic economy or by one country in the affairs of another.
• Regulation: A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority to control an activity.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Hands-off approach": A method of management or governance involving minimal direct involvement or interference. This phrase is conceptually similar to the attitude described by "laissez faire."
  • The principal took a hands-off approach, trusting the teachers to run their classrooms.

Noun

1. the doctrine that government should not interfere in commercial affairs