autonomy
noun (countable)
UK/ɔːˈtɒn.ə.mi/US/ɑːˈtɑː.nə.mi/
The right or condition of self-government; independence or freedom of will and action.
Example Sentences
The region demanded greater autonomy from the central government.
A sense of autonomy can significantly boost a team's motivation and productivity.
When children are given a measure of autonomy, they learn to make decisions and take responsibility for their choices.
Employers who trust their staff with autonomy often see more innovative ideas and higher job satisfaction.
Granting autonomy to local authorities helps them tailor policies that meet the specific needs of their communities.
Many people believe personal autonomy is essential for a fulfilling and authentic life.
Autonomy not only fosters individual growth but also encourages a healthy sense of ownership and accountability within groups, leading to more consistent and sustainable results.
From political structures to personal relationships, the delicate balance between autonomy and collaboration often determines the long-term success of any endeavor.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
The capacity or freedom to act independently, free from external control.“Autonomy” refers to having the power or right to make decisions for oneself—whether that’s an individual’s personal independence or a region’s self-governance. In personal contexts, it might describe a person’s ability to choose their own path without undue influence. In politics, “autonomy” could indicate a district or entity that manages its internal affairs, possibly separate from a central authority. For workplaces, “employee autonomy” suggests staff having latitude to decide how they do tasks or schedule responsibilities. Autonomy often arises when discussing self-determination—people or groups want the freedom to shape their futures and control resources. At a psychological level, individuals with high autonomy tend to feel more confident, motivated, and responsible. Meanwhile, in organizational structures, granting autonomy may boost innovation or morale but also demands clear boundaries and accountability. The principle is balancing personal or local choice with communal or systemic coherence.
Alternatives
Synonyms for “autonomy” can vary by context. “Independence” underscores freedom from external rule, while “self-governance” focuses on political or administrative control. “Self-determination” fits political or personal contexts, emphasizing the right to decide one’s own course. “Agency” highlights an individual’s power to make decisions and act on them. For business, words like “empowerment” or “authority” might apply if emphasizing delegated decision-making. Yet “autonomy” remains the most direct term for describing a recognized right or capacity to operate without imposed interference.
Writing
In formal or academic texts, specify whose autonomy you’re referencing and in what domain (e.g., political autonomy of a region, personal autonomy in ethics, or workplace autonomy in management). For instance, “The province sought greater autonomy to legislate tax policies,” or “Fostering student autonomy can enhance critical thinking.” If discussing ethics or philosophy, you might explain how personal autonomy ties to moral responsibility—because an autonomous individual is seen as owning their choices. In political or organizational discussions, mention how autonomy works: does the group have the legislative, financial, or administrative power to make its own rules, or is it partial autonomy subject to a higher authority? Providing definitions, examples, and contextual boundaries helps readers grasp the scope of autonomy you’re describing.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, people might talk about wanting more autonomy at work—hoping for less micromanagement and more freedom to handle tasks. Or they might mention personal autonomy regarding lifestyle decisions—like choosing where to live or how to structure their day. When friends or family discuss autonomy, they may be addressing independence, especially for older teenagers leaving home or seniors who want to maintain control over personal routines. The concept often surfaces in debates over rules or constraints: “We need some autonomy to figure out our own solutions.” This usage underscores a desire for self-direction and minimal outside interference. While the term sounds somewhat formal, “autonomy” can neatly convey that core idea of personal or collective free rein.
Etymology
“Autonomy” derives from the Greek “autonomos,” meaning “having one’s own laws” (from “auto-” for “self” and “nomos” for “law”). Historically, it pointed to communities that governed themselves by their own rules without being subjected to external powers. Over time, the notion extended beyond government—applying to ethical and personal spheres, corporate governance, and even software or robotics contexts (“autonomous systems”). The Greek root still highlights the essence: possessing or creating one’s own rules, unimpeded by external forces.
