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

As Sikh forces asserted greater autonomy and Durrani prepared another invasion, the Marathas were unable to consolidate power. — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026

The series continues to aim at offering up to 10 days of off-grid autonomy, packaging in a 320-Ah battery bank, 95-W rooftop solar panel (two on the ML-T) and an inverter. — New Atlas, 13 Aug. 2026

The team supports and has always supported the gestational carrier’s right to make medical decisions for herself and for her bodily autonomy. — Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 2026

In real-world operations, full autonomy isn't always the goal. — Ishraq Khan, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026