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autonomy

aw-TON-uh-mee /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/

nounC1GRESATTOEFLIELTS

formalacademic

The right or condition of self-government; freedom from external control or influence over choices.

Stresses the freedom to govern one's schedule, client selection, and work methodology.

The story behind the word. From Greek 'autonomia', formed by 'autos' (self) and 'nomos' (law). It originally described ancient Greek city-states like Athens that possessed their own laws and operated free from foreign empire rule.

Word relationships

independence: Independence means non-reliance on others; autonomy focuses specifically on self-governance and decision rights.
sovereignty: Sovereignty usually applies to political states or absolute supreme power.

subordination: The state of being under the authority and control of another.
dependence: Relying entirely on external authority or funding.

Commonly confused with

flexibility: Flexibility is the capability to adapt hours or habits; autonomy is the legal/structural authority to make decisions.

Word family

autonomous (adjective): Having self-government or freedom of action.
autonomously (adverb): In an autonomous manner.

Collocations

grant autonomy
operational autonomy
schedule autonomy
preserve autonomy

Idioms & expressions

be one's own boss

Example sentences

"Freelancers frequently cited schedule autonomy as the primary reason for leaving traditional corporate employment." Workplace Psychology
"Worker autonomy increases job satisfaction, provided it is matched with adequate income stability." Academic Sociology

Memory hook

AUTO (self) + NOMY (law/name) = Making your own AUTO-laws for your life. Autonomy = self-law.

When not to use

Do not confuse with isolation; one can have autonomy while collaborating with large teams.

Fun facts

Immanuel Kant placed 'autonomy of the will' at the very core of human ethical decision-making.