WordGarden.ioindependence
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌɪndɪpˈɛndəns/
US
- /ˌɪndɪˈpɛndəns/
Meanings
Noun
freedom from relying on or being controlled by others
political freedom of a country or group from outside rule
a statistical condition in which events or variables do not affect each other's probability
Beyond the definition
Independence isn't just about a nation becoming free from another country's rule. It also appears in everyday life. Think of a young bird leaving the nest and learning to fly on its own. That's independence in action. It means relying on yourself, making your own choices, and being responsible for what you do. A truly independent person isn't afraid to follow their own path, even if it differs from everyone else's. You might strive for financial independence by earning enough money to support yourself without help. Or you might build emotional independence by learning to feel happy and secure within yourself, no matter what others think.
The word comes from the idea of not depending on something else. It can also describe the freedom of a nation from outside control, like the United States celebrating Independence Day.
Independence is the state of being free, self-governing, and not subject to the control of others. While often associated with national sovereignty—like when one country declares independence from an empire—it's a concept that extends far beyond politics.
At its core, independence speaks to self-reliance. A child learning to tie their shoes is taking a step towards independence. An artist creating work without seeking approval is demonstrating artistic independence. A financially independent person can support themselves and make choices based on their own needs and desires, not dictated by financial constraints.
Emotional independence refers to the ability to be happy and secure within yourself, without needing constant validation from others. It's about having your own thoughts, feelings, and values, and being comfortable expressing them. Someone with strong emotional independence doesn't define their worth based on external factors.
The term also applies to nations or territories that have broken free from colonial rule or foreign domination. The American Declaration of Independence, for example, proclaimed the thirteen colonies' freedom from British rule.
So whether it's a personal journey towards self-sufficiency, an artist's creative vision, or a nation asserting its sovereignty—independence is about freedom, autonomy, and the power to chart your own course. It's a fundamental human desire, driving us to take control of our lives and shape our destinies.
Examples
- 1
National status
The country gained independence in 1960.
- 2
Family freedom
Many teenagers want more independence from their parents.
- Patternindependence from + person/group
freedom from their control
- 3
Living alone
Living alone gave her a sense of independence.
- 4
Work autonomy
The job gives you a lot of independence in how you organize your day.
- Patternindependence in how you do something
freedom to choose your own way
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Personal pride
He has always valued his independence and hates asking for help.
- 6
Money
After paying off her debts, she finally achieved financial independence.
- Phrasefinancial independence
having enough money to support yourself
- 7
Older adults
The charity helps older people maintain their independence at home.
- Phrasemaintain independence
keep living without depending too much on others
- 8
Independent thinking
She is respected for her independence of mind.
- Phraseindependence of mind
the ability to think for yourself
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- self-sufficiency
- sovereignty
- agency
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- gain independence
- declare independence
- financial independence
- independence from
Word family
Explore
- liberty
- self-government
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- independencenoun
Forms
- independencespluralnoun