C1nounformalpoliticssociety
US/ɔːˈtɑː.nə.mi/
UK/ɔːˈtɒn.ə.mi/
the freedom to make your own decisions without being controlled by others
In context
Teachers want more autonomy to decide how they run their classes.
The region was given greater autonomy within the country.
Teenagers need some autonomy if they are going to become responsible adults.
Words that go with autonomy
adjective + noun
- personal autonomyPersonal autonomy matters to people who work from home.
- greater autonomyThe branch asked for greater autonomy over its budget.
- political autonomyThe island has limited political autonomy.
verb + noun
- enjoy autonomyRemote workers often enjoy more autonomy.
- grant autonomyThe government agreed to grant autonomy to the province.
noun + preposition
- autonomy overPatients want autonomy over their own treatment.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
She wants to have an autonomy.Correct: She wants to have autonomy.