[gr4vityWall]

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.

[nandomrumber]

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.

[gr4vityWall]

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

Yes, I believe so.