autonomy

/ɔˈtɑnəmi/
noun
  1. The right or condition of self-government, especially of a region or group.
    • The new law gives the university more autonomy in setting its budget.
    • Many indigenous groups have fought for greater autonomy from the central government.
    • The province was granted autonomy to manage its own education system.
  2. Personal independence or freedom to make one's own decisions.
    • Teenagers often seek more autonomy from their parents.
    • The patient's autonomy must be respected when choosing a treatment.
    • Working from home gives me a sense of autonomy over my schedule.
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