Words / B1

ind-i-PEND-uh-ns/ˌɪndɪˈpendəns/

Independence is freedom from control (usually uncountable): independence from; gain independence. Independent is the adjective (already in the dictionary). Freedom is wider; autonomy is more formal. Young adults: rent as a barrier to independence.

Meaning

The state of being free from control by others (usually uncountable).

Examples

• “Young adults cited rent as the main barrier to independence.”
• “The regulator’s independence from ministers was the essay title.”

Good to know

independence from (usually uncountable). Adjective: independent. Wider: freedom. Formal: autonomy. Housing / regulators / history papers.

Near in meaning

freedom

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