Pronunciation: [fɹˈiː pˈasɪd͡ʒ] (IPA) 
"Free passage" is spelled as /fri pæsədʒ/. In this phrase, the first syllable "free" is pronounced as /fri/ with a long "e" sound, while the second syllable "passage" is pronounced as /pæsədʒ/ with a soft "a". The "ss" in "passage" is pronounced as a double "s" sound. The term "free passage" refers to being able to move freely without any obstruction or hindrance. It is a commonly used phrase in immigration laws and policies.
Free passage refers to unrestricted movement or travel across a certain area or region. It denotes the right or permission granted to individuals, vehicles, or vessels to move through a specific territory without any hindrance, hindrance, restriction, toll, or undue delay.
The concept of free passage commonly applies to both land and sea routes, allowing travelers to traverse boundaries or crossing points without encountering any legal or physical barriers. It facilitates efficient trade, transportation, and communication between countries or regions by eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic procedures or requirements.
In the context of international relations, free passage is often guaranteed by treaties or agreements between nations to maintain peaceful interactions and promote diplomatic ties. It is crucial during times of conflict or tension to ensure the movement of people, goods, or military forces in a secure and unimpeded manner.
Furthermore, the principle of free passage is frequently applied in the context of navigation through international waters. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), ships and other vessels have the right to innocent passage through territorial seas, meaning they can sail through these waters as long as they do not engage in any harmful activities or violate the sovereign rights of the coastal state.
Overall, free passage is a fundamental concept that underscores the importance of unrestricted movement, fostering cooperation, and facilitating the exchange of goods and ideas between territories, countries, or regions.
The word "free" comes from the Old English word "freo", which means "exempt from, not in bondage". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "frija-" meaning "beloved, to love", and ultimately to the Proto-Indo-European root "pri", which means "to love".
The word "passage" comes from the Old French word "passage" and the Latin word "passagium", both of which mean "a crossing, a transition". This word can be traced back to the Latin verb "passare", which means "to step, to pass over" and is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "peth-" meaning "to go, to walk".
