Autonomy

Noun

Definition: The right or condition of self-government; independence.

Synonyms: Independence, Self-government, Self-determination

Antonyms: Dependence, Subordination, Control

Examples:

The country fought for autonomy from colonial rule.
The school gave the students the autonomy to plan their own projects.

Mnemonics:

"Auto" refers to self, so think of autonomy as self-governance.
Think of "autonomy" as breaking away from being "auto-nomous" (no rules).

Etymology:

Origin:

Greek "autonomia", from "auto-" (self) + "nomos" (law)

Historical Usage:

The term "autonomy" originated in Ancient Greece and was used in philosophy to refer to the idea of self-governance and the ability of individuals or communities to make their own laws.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Grant/receive autonomy"

Explanation:

Refers to giving or receiving the right or condition of self-government, usually in a political or organizational context.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing autonomy with independence.

Explanation:

While autonomy often implies independence, it specifically refers to the right or condition of self-government, which can exist within a larger system or organization. Autonomy does not necessarily mean complete separation or being completely free from external influences.