independence

Think of independence as the ultimate feeling of being the boss of your own life. When you have independence, you aren't relying on someone else to tell you what to do or to provide for your needs.

It is a word that carries a lot of weight. In a personal sense, it means autonomy—the power to make your own choices. In a political sense, it means a country is sovereign and free from foreign rule.

The word comes from the Latin in- (not) and dependere (to hang down). Literally, it means 'not hanging from' someone else.

It entered English in the 17th century. It became a very powerful political term during the 18th century, especially around the time of the American Revolution, when colonies sought to break away from British rule.

You will often hear people talk about gaining independence or fighting for independence. It is a very versatile word used in everything from politics to child development.

In casual speech, we might say someone has a 'strong sense of independence.' In formal writing, it often describes the 'independence of the judiciary' or 'financial independence.'

Stand on your own two feet: To be independent and self-sufficient. Example: After college, she finally stood on her own two feet.

Cut the apron strings: To become independent from one's parents. Example: It was time for him to cut the apron strings and move out.

Strike out on one's own: To start doing something independently. Example: He decided to strike out on his own and start a business.

Go it alone: To do something without help. Example: She decided to go it alone on the project.

Master of one's own destiny: Having full control over one's life. Example: She felt like the master of her own destiny.

Independence is an uncountable noun, meaning we usually don't say 'an independence.' We use it with articles like 'the' or no article at all.

The stress is on the second syllable: in-de-PEN-dence. It rhymes with 'dependence' and 'transcendence.' It is a classic noun form derived from the adjective 'independent.'