autonomy
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autonomy
The state of self-reliance, independence, or self-government. It refers to the right to make one's own decisions and live according to one's own laws.
Viele Völker kämpfen für ihre politische Autonomie.
Many peoples fight for their political autonomy.
'Die Autonomie' (autonomy) is the noun corresponding to the adjective 'autonom' (autonomous). If a region is 'autonom' (autonomous), then it has 'Autonomie' (autonomy).
Die Region hat lange für ihre Autonomie gekämpft und ist jetzt autonom.
The region fought for its autonomy for a long time and is now autonomous.
The word comes from Greek: 'auto-' means 'self' and 'nomos' means 'law.' So 'Autonomie' (autonomy) literally means 'self-legislation' or 'self-government.'
Die Autonomie der Hochschule ist im Gesetz verankert.
The autonomy of the university is enshrined in law.
'Autonomie' (autonomy) is a rather formal and abstract term. It is often found in political, philosophical, legal, and academic texts.
Der Aufsatz behandelt das Thema der persönlichen Autonomie im Alter.
The essay deals with the topic of personal autonomy in old age.
In a political context, autonomy is often combined with verbs such as 'fordern' (to demand), 'erlangen' (to obtain), 'verteidigen' (to defend), 'gewähren' (to grant), or 'verlieren' (to lose).
Die Minderheit fordert mehr Autonomie von der Zentralregierung.
The minority is demanding more autonomy from the central government.
In a personal or ethical context, autonomy is often used with verbs such as 'respektieren' (to respect), 'wahren' (to preserve), 'stärken' (to strengthen), or 'fördern' (to promote).
Gute Pflegeeinrichtungen versuchen, die Autonomie der Bewohner zu fördern.
Good care facilities try to promote the autonomy of their residents.
freedom
'die Freiheit' and 'die Autonomie' can both mean that someone can make their own decisions. 'Freiheit' is the more general word and fits many personal and political rights. 'Autonomie' sounds more precise and often somewhat more formal. It means self-reliance, self-government, or the ability to act according to one's own values. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with independence. In everyday language, people more often say 'Freiheit'. 'Autonomie' fits especially when talking about self-reliant people, groups, regions, or institutions.
Die Schule hat mehr Autonomie bekommen und kann nun eigene Regeln festlegen.
The school has been given more autonomy and can now set its own rules.
Sie wünscht sich bei der Arbeit mehr Freiheit, eigene Ideen umzusetzen.
She would like more freedom at work to put her own ideas into practice.