People often say "free speech doesn't mean freedom from consequences".

But really, it's all about the severity of the consequences. After all, being fined/arrested could be a consequence, but we wouldn't say there's free speech in that case (but not freedom from consequences).

If someone is fined by the state for something they've said, would we consider that free speech? Probably not.

If someone loses their job for something they've said (likely incurring a much bigger financial loss than the aforementioned fine), would we consider that free speech?

It ultimately comes down to deciding which consequences (if any) are appropriate for the particular case.

If you think that a £100 fine for saying something "unacceptable" is not okay, then why would you think that job loss or social ostracism are okay?

If you're of the "any consequences incurred by speaking freely are fine" camp, then the idea of free speech becomes meaningless. In that case, the only way it could be restricted is literally/physically.

Technically, we can all speak unless someone gags us, but at what cost?