SELF-RELIANT Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

self-reliant

adjective

ˌself-ri-ˈlī-ənt

Definition of self-reliant next

as in independent

able to take care of oneself or itself without outside help a surprisingly calm and self-reliant child

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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-reliant Matthew Fox, the Golden Globe-winning star of Lost (2004–2010), will play Paul, who's characterized as an outdoorsman and self-reliant bachelor. —

Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 25 Jan. 2026 Another big driver of the surplus is China’s relatively low imports as Beijing pushes for an economy that’s self-reliant. —

Diane Brady, Fortune, 14 Jan. 2026 The leaders of independent India, wary of inviting new forms of colonial domination, wanted to be self-reliant. —

Tanvi Madan, Foreign Affairs, 16 Dec. 2025 It's been very important to me to be strong and self-reliant, and to constantly be growing. —

Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 16 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-reliant

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-reliant

independent

Adjective

My administration will establish clear policy that bans deputy gangs and gang-like behavior, protect whistleblowers, and create safe, independent channels to report misconduct.

— Opinion Staff, Daily News, 5 Apr. 2026
Legislators should demand independent safety data, not industry assurances, before opening Chicago’s streets to widespread autonomous vehicle deployment.

— Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 5 Apr. 2026