Synonyms of autonomy

autonomy

noun

ȯ-ˈtä-nə-mē 

1

as in choice

the act or power of making one's own choices or decisions

the director agreed to make the film only on the condition that she be given complete autonomy for the casting

Synonyms & Similar Words

• choice
• self-determination
• volition
• free will
• option
• will
• accord
• election
• preference
• selection
• devices
• predisposition
• inclination
• tendency
• discretion
• predilection
• alternative
• propensity
• disposition
• partiality
• penchant
• proclivity
• bent
• leaning
• way
• pick

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• pressure
• force
• coercion
• constraint
• compulsion
• duress

2

as in independence

the state of being free from the control or power of another

finding the mother country's treatment of them oppressive and intolerable, the 13 British colonies made the momentous decision to seek autonomy

Synonyms & Similar Words

• independence
• sovereignty
• freedom
• independency
• liberty
• liberation
• self-governance
• emancipation
• self-determination
• self-government
• manumission
• enfranchisement
• release

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• dependence
• subjection
• heteronomy
• unfreedom
• subjugation
• imprisonment
• captivity
• enslavement
• incarceration
• internment
• enchainment
• immurement

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of autonomy

Now, as the film finally makes its way to audiences, the director is looking forward to the conversations that the film can inspire around trauma, autonomy and healing. — Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2026

Even in recent years, Steinem remained an active voice advocating for women's rights, autonomy and representation. — Megan Sauer, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2026

Executives’ confidence in AI in the workplace falls as the technology gains autonomy. — J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 2 Sep. 2026

In fact, in this retelling, their free will and autonomy are essential elements of that virtuous cycle, rather than subjugated by it. — Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2026