independent
ihn-dih-PEHN-duhnt
Independent (adj) means not controlled or influenced by others; self-governing or self-sufficient. Example: “My grandmother is proud to be independent and still lives on her own.”
adj
1
Not controlled or influenced by others; self-governing or self-sufficient.
"My grandmother is proud to be independent and still lives on her own."
"She started an independent consulting business after leaving the firm."
"The country became independent in 1962."
2
Not affiliated with a political party.
"He ran as an independent candidate in the local election."
"As an independent voter, she picks whoever seems best each time."
"The mayor, an independent, belongs to no party at all."
noun
1
A person, business, or team not affiliated with a larger party, chain, or league.
"The film was made by a small independent without any help from a big studio."
"The record label is an independent run by two friends from university."
"The bookstore is a small independent, not part of a chain."
How to use independent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishStanding on your own — free from outside control, whether that's a country, a business, a voter, or a person.
Common pairings
independent contractor
independent study
run as an independent
independent of
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Word forms
- Plural
- independents
- Comparative
- more independent
- Superlative
- most independent
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
My grandmother is proud to be _____ and still lives on her own.
Etymology
From French indépendant, from in- ("not") + dependent.
Synonyms
View more →
self-reliant
self-sufficient
self-governing
sovereign
separate
main
fencesitter
mugwump
freelance
freelancer
autonomous
free
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for independent
See all rhymes for independent →Frequently asked questions
What does “independent” mean?
The word “independent” means not controlled or influenced by others; self-governing or self-sufficient. In plain terms, standing on your own — free from outside control, whether that's a country, a business, a voter, or a person.
How do you pronounce “independent”?
“Independent” is pronounced ihn-dih-PEHN-duhnt (/ˌɪn.dɪˈpɛn.dənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “independent” in a sentence?
Here is “independent” used in a sentence: “She started an independent consulting business after leaving the firm.”
What is another word for “independent”?
Words with a similar meaning to “independent” include autonomous, free, self-standing, substantive and crossbencher.
What is the opposite of “independent”?
The opposite of “independent” — its antonyms — are contingent and dependent.
What part of speech is “independent”?
Depending on how it is used, “independent” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “independent” come from?
The word “independent” comes from French. From French indépendant, from in- ("not") + dependent.
Is “independent” a common word?
“Independent” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between independent and dependent?
Independent means not relying on or controlled by others — able to act, decide or support oneself. Dependent is the opposite: needing someone or something else for support, funding or guidance. A grown adult earning their own living is independent; a small child who relies on parents is dependent.
Is independent a positive word?
Usually, yes. Describing a person as independent suggests self-reliance, confidence and the ability to stand on their own — qualities most people admire. It can carry a mild negative shade if it hints at stubbornness or an unwillingness to accept help, but in most contexts it is a compliment.
What does it mean to be financially independent?
Financial independence means you can cover your living costs from your own income or savings, without relying on others such as family, a partner or the state. For some it simply means paying their own way; for others it means having enough wealth that working becomes optional.
Can a country be independent?
Yes. An independent country governs itself, setting its own laws and policies free from the control of another nation. Many gained this status through independence movements that ended colonial or foreign rule. Sovereignty — full self-government and international recognition — is what marks a country as truly independent.
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