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Autonomy

aw-TON-uh-mee /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/

nounC1GRETOEFLIELTS

formaltechnicalacademic

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

In the context of technology, it refers to a system's ability to operate independently, making decisions and executing tasks without human intervention.

The story behind the word. The word 'autonomy' is a beautiful blend from ancient Greek: 'autos' meaning 'self' and 'nomos' meaning 'law' or 'rule.' So, 'autonomia' literally meant 'self-law' or 'self-rule.' This concept has traveled through centuries, from describing independent city-states to individuals' freedom, and now, to the self-governing capabilities of advanced artificial intelligence and robotic systems. It's all about making your own rules!

Word relationships

independence: Broader term, can refer to political, personal, or financial freedom.
self-governance: More specific to political or organizational control.

dependence: Reliance on others for support or control.
subordination: Being placed in a lower rank or under the control of another.

Commonly confused with

automation: Automation refers to tasks performed by machines without human input; autonomy implies the machine can make decisions and adapt independently, not just follow programmed steps.

Word family

autonomous (adjective): having the right or power of self-government; acting independently

Collocations

full autonomy
greater autonomy
operational autonomy
achieve autonomy
degree of autonomy

Example sentences

"The new generation of AI-powered drones boasts increased autonomy, allowing them to adapt to changing environments and complete complex missions independently." Artificial intelligence
"The region fought for greater autonomy, seeking the right to govern its own affairs without interference from the central government." Political science

Memory hook

Think 'AUTO' (self) and 'NOMY' (name/rule) – making your own rules, like an 'autonomous' car driving itself. Self-Rule/Self-Direction

When not to use

Do not use 'autonomy' to describe simple automation; it implies a higher level of independent decision-making and self-direction.

Fun facts

The philosophical concept of autonomy has been central to ethical and political thought since ancient Greece.
In robotics, levels of autonomy are often classified, from human-operated to fully autonomous systems.