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

The difference, said Kornhaber, is Charli’s commitment to autonomy and her public manipulation of her own image. — Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 24 July 2026

But 60 Minutes long operated as almost a separate unit within the news division, enjoying a great deal of autonomy. — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 24 July 2026

Though the extent of Houthi autonomy from Iran is unclear, the relationship between them is close and their actions coordinated. — David Brennan, ABC News, 23 July 2026

The future of work shouldn't force workers to choose between autonomy and security. — Maria Flynn, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026