Freedom of Speech or Free Speech: Same Thing?

I suppose I am being semantical but I would like to address an age-old debate.

Often times when someone says something deemed offensive or controversial through media outlets, there are always outcries of Freedom of Speech that follow.

Is saying anything you want at anytime and at any place what the First Ammendment is all about?

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
- The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

abridge

1. to shorten by omissions while retaining the basic concepts: to abridge a reference book
2. to reduce or lessen in duration, scope, authority, etc.; diminish; curtail: to abridge a visit; to abridge one’s freedom
3. to deprive; cut off

It seems to me that there is a difference between freedom of speech and free speech. I am not saying I am an authority of course but let me just point out where there appears to be a separation.

Voicing your opinion, regardless of how inflammatory or relevant, in a personal forum is freedom of speech. That doesn’t mean you have to be confined to your house either. But it seems using a platform like the media or a public venue is not the same thing.

Especially if you are a host of a broadcasted show. If you have an offensive view why do you have to use the airwaves to exercise your freedom of speech? No one is saying you can’t feel that way nor is anyone saying you can never express it. Nonetheless, free speech is a matter of saying whatever, whenever.

Putting a form of limitation or conditions as to where you can demonstrate your right to freedom of speech is not unprecedented however. We all agree yelling “fire” in a movie theater is not practicing Freedom of Speech. It may be free speech but we all understand the need for restraint in this scenario.

So by saying people should refrain from using vulgarity and offensive speech in certain situations, I believe is still within the realm of Freedom of Speech. You are not abridging anyone from voicing their opinion. You are only saying that there is a responsiblity as to where it is said. Notice where it is said not if it is said. The comment is not being censored.