Synonyms of independence

independence

noun

ˌin-də-ˈpen-dən(t)s 

1

as in autonomy

the ability to care for one's self

children are supposed to achieve some measure of independence by the time they are 18—so it's time for that 30-year-old to move out!

Synonyms & Similar Words

• autonomy
• freedom
• self-sufficiency
• self-reliance
• self-support
• strength
• self-dependence
• resilience
• self-subsistence
• self-determination
• power
• potency

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• dependence
• reliance
• weakness
• helplessness
• inadequacy
• impotence
• impotency

2

as in sovereignty

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

college freshmen often revel in their newfound independence

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of independence

Here, members of Forbes Technology Council share skills schools can teach to help students engage with AI thoughtfully while maintaining the judgment and independence that meaningful learning requires. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2026

The Moon opposes Pluto in your sign, bringing tension between partnership and independence. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 7 Sep. 2026

Lost his job, his home, his independence Papadopoulos moved to Athens, Georgia, in 2009 for warmer weather and new adventures. — Jayme Fraser, USA Today, 7 Sep. 2026

His parents got divorced in middle school, and that forced him to find his independence. — Zack Rosenblatt, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026