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I see it as English-centric, rather than US-centric. That differentiation isn't necessary in most (all?) languages.

Adopting the word "gratis" when the speaker means "at no monetary cost" also helps clarify things.

Would it be more correct to say it doesn’t necessarily mean free as in beer?

Someone can give you a free beer and a complimentary license to manufacture and distribute that same beer, and even make changes to the recipe.

> Would it be more correct to say it doesn’t necessarily mean free as in beer

Yes, I believe so.