01
unabhängig
independent
Not controlled or ruled by other people, states, or powers; autonomous, sovereign.
example
Das Land wurde 1960 unabhängig.
The country became independent in 1960.
unabhängig
independent
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word has a clear structure: the prefix 'un-' means 'not', and 'abhängig' comes from the verb 'abhängen' (to depend). So 'unabhängig' (independent) literally means 'not dependent on something or someone'.
EXAMPLE
Sie möchte eine unabhängige Entscheidung treffen.
She wants to make an independent decision.
Fixed preposition
'Unabhängig' (independent) is almost always used with the preposition 'von' (from / of) and the dative. This construction shows what the independence consists of.
EXAMPLE
Er ist finanziell unabhängig von seinen Eltern.
He is financially independent from his parents.
Political context
In a political context, 'unabhängig' (independent) is often combined with nouns such as 'Staat' (state), 'Land' (country), or 'Nation' (nation). A common phrase is 'unabhängig werden' (to become independent).
EXAMPLE
Viele ehemalige Kolonien sind heute unabhängige Staaten.
Many former colonies are independent states today.
Financial context
In this meaning, the word is often supplemented by adverbs such as 'finanziell' (financially) or 'wirtschaftlich' (economically) to specify the type of independence.
EXAMPLE
Durch den neuen Job ist sie nun wirtschaftlich unabhängig.
Thanks to the new job, she is now economically independent.
Objectivity and neutrality
When it comes to neutrality, 'unabhängig' (independent) often describes people or institutions that are supposed to be impartial, e.g. 'unabhängige Medien' (independent media), 'eine unabhängige Kommission' (an independent commission), or 'ein unabhängiger Experte' (an independent expert).
EXAMPLE
Eine unabhängige Untersuchung soll die Ursache des Unfalls klären.
An independent investigation is to determine the cause of the accident.
Word order
When used to introduce a sentence, 'Unabhängig von...' (regardless of...) is in position 1. The verb of the main clause then moves directly after it into position 2.
EXAMPLE
Unabhängig von seiner Meinung werden wir das Projekt starten.
Regardless of his opinion, we will start the project.
Compare with
unabhängig vs trotz
despite
'trotz' and 'unabhängig von' can both express that something does not have a decisive influence. However, 'trotz' emphasizes a counter-reason: there is a problem or obstacle, but something happens anyway. 'Unabhängig von' sounds more neutral and means: one thing does not matter for the decision or the result. Learners may confuse the words because both are often connected to 'egal ob' (no matter whether) or 'obwohl' (although). As a guide: when there is an obstacle, 'trotz' fits better. When you are saying generally that something is not a condition, 'unabhängig von' fits better.
unabhängig
Die Kurse finden unabhängig vom Wetter im Gemeindehaus statt.
The courses take place in the community center regardless of the weather.
trotz
Trotz seiner Kopfschmerzen geht Max zur Prüfung.
Despite his headache, Max is going to the exam.
In real life
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