as in independence
the ability to care for one's self
some people don't achieve self-reliance until they're over 30 years old
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of self-reliance
The incident highlights the challenges of policing and ensuring safety in a temporary city of more than 70,000 people built in the isolation of Nevada's Black Rock Desert, raising questions about how the festival can balance its ethos of self-reliance with the realities of crime and public safety.
—
Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Sep. 2025
In the span of just two years, its shares have multiplied roughly tenfold, turning the company into a market darling and another visible symbol of Beijing's drive for technological self-reliance.
—Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2025
And Malcolm always talked about self-reliance, self- determination, and finally that clicked in my mind.
—Zak Cheney-Rice, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2025
Modi earlier vowed self-reliance as well, pledging to defend his country’s interests.
—Afp, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-reliance
Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Sep. 2025
In the span of just two years, its shares have multiplied roughly tenfold, turning the company into a market darling and another visible symbol of Beijing's drive for technological self-reliance.
—Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2025
And Malcolm always talked about self-reliance, self- determination, and finally that clicked in my mind.
—Zak Cheney-Rice, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2025
Modi earlier vowed self-reliance as well, pledging to defend his country’s interests.
—Afp, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-reliance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-reliance
Noun
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The craft seller at a roadside market is earning her independence.—
Daniel Scheffler,
Forbes.com,
12 Sep. 2025
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The trial and prosecution of Bolsonaro became a test for the independence of Brazilian judiciary, which did not buckle under domestic or international political pressure.—
Adriana Carranca,
Time,
12 Sep. 2025
Noun
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The English song is inspired by ‘90s boom bap hip-hop, exuding the singer’s self-assurance, autonomy, and fearless nature.—
Laura Sirikul,
Forbes.com,
16 Sep. 2025
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From Kerouac’s On the Road to Ridley Scott’s Thelma and Louise, the car has been our cultural shorthand for autonomy and escape.—
Henrietta Moore,
Fortune,
16 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Instead of chasing personal brand deals or viral fame, these creators are sharing practical skills, rallying volunteers, and spreading the message of self-sufficiency and mutual support.—
Jason Phillips,
USA Today,
10 Sep. 2025
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For the Dedinis, the practice of frog gigging is also a step toward self-sufficiency.—
Sophie Hartley,
IndyStar,
9 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Self-reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-reliance. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.
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