SELF-RELIANCE Synonyms: 20 Similar and Opposite Words

self-reliance

noun

ˌself-ri-ˈlī-ənts

Definition of self-reliance

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of self-reliance In its 40th year, the purpose of the outdoor retreat is for youth to reflect on universal values including nonviolence, respect, fearlessness, honesty, equanimity and self-reliance as exemplified by Indian freedom leader Mahatma Gandhi. — Savita Patel, Mercury News, 26 July 2026 With a focus on sustainability and self-reliance similar to that of SECMOL, the institute is a higher-education center that awards fellowships for work on climate-friendly innovations that benefit communities in Ladakh and other mountainous regions. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 21 July 2026 But her perspective is internet-era cosmopolitan; young but preternaturally wise about self-reliance. — Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026 At camp, children often learn about patriotism, discipline, cooperation, leadership and self-reliance. — Seth T. Kannarr, Fortune, 13 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-reliance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-reliance

Noun

The scary transition to independence Young adults living away home, without a highly structured school day with classes and extracurriculars dominating most of their time, are going to make mistakes.

— Mary Frances Ruskell, CNN Money, 19 Aug. 2026
What has inspired me most isn’t just their strength, independence and resilience, but the way their divorce has transformed into a beautiful starting point for something better.

— Josh Feldman, NBC news, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of independence

Noun

Explore the distinctive voices who use the Power of No to create focus, quality, autonomy and build a life of remarkable success.

— Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Surfacing bridging content that spans political lines while speaking to what the user values could be a promising direction for fostering both user autonomy and constructive conversation.

— Farnaz Jahanbakhsh, The Conversation, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of autonomy

Noun

Struggle for self-sufficiency The devastating outbreak reshaped China’s blood products industry, prompting sweeping regulations throughout the entire chain from plasma collection to clinical use.

— CNN Staff, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
China is building its fuel-cell supply chain for export competitiveness, while India is focusing on low-cost rail retrofits in line with its national self-sufficiency vision.

— Jenny Lee,Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of self-sufficiency

Browse Nearby Words

self-regulating

self-reliance

self-reliant

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“Self-reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-reliance. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-reliance

noun

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