Independence Meaning
Independence Definition & Usage
The state of being free from control, influence, or support by others; self-governance or autonomy.
Examples
- "The country declared its independence from colonial rule in 1960."
- "After years of struggle, the people celebrated their newfound independence."
- "Many young adults seek financial independence as a way to live on their own terms."
- "The colonies fought a long war to gain independence from the empire."
- "The independence of the judiciary is crucial to maintaining a fair legal system."
The ability to make decisions and take actions without relying on others; self-sufficiency or self-reliance.
Examples
- "She gained independence when she moved to the city and started her own business."
- "Teaching children independence is an important goal for parents."
- "The teenager showed remarkable independence by managing her studies and part-time job on her own."
- "He values his independence and dislikes asking for help."
- "The ability to live independently is a key part of adulthood."
A concept referring to the state of being self-determined, not subject to external influence or control, often associated with autonomy of thought or action.
Examples
- "The philosopher argued that true independence comes from freeing oneself from societal norms."
- "Independence of thought is essential for critical thinking."
- "In his writings, he emphasized the importance of intellectual independence over conforming to popular opinion."
- "Her views on independence are rooted in existential philosophy."
- "Cultural independence often involves resisting external pressures and preserving one's own traditions."
Cultural Context
Independence has been a crucial concept throughout human history, especially in the context of national and political struggles. Many revolutions and movements have been fought with the goal of achieving independence, from the American Revolution to the Indian independence movement. It also plays a significant role in personal development and social expectations of adulthood, where independence is often equated with maturity.
A Journey Toward Independence
Story
A Journey Toward Independence
In the small town of Greenhill, everyone knew Sarah as the quiet artist who lived in a little house on the edge of the woods. But not many knew the struggles she had faced to get there. As a child, Sarah had lived under the strict rules of her parents, who controlled nearly every aspect of her life. It wasn’t until she left for college that she truly experienced the freedom of independence. Living alone in a big city was a dream come true. Sarah could make her own choices without anyone telling her what to do. She began painting full-time and soon found success. Despite the challenges, she embraced her independence in every aspect—financial, emotional, and creative. One evening, while sitting in her apartment, she received a letter from her childhood friend, Emma, who had stayed in Greenhill. Emma was struggling with her own sense of freedom. ‘I envy your independence,’ she wrote. ‘I’ve always felt tied down by expectations and responsibilities. I’m not sure how to break free.’ Sarah thought for a moment and wrote back, ‘Independence isn’t just about living alone or having your own money. It’s about finding the courage to follow your own path, no matter what others expect of you.’ Sarah realized that her own journey had been more than just physical separation from her family—it had been a process of learning to trust herself and make decisions based on her values, not the pressures of the world around her. A few months later, Emma visited Sarah in the city. ‘I think I’m ready to take the first step,’ she said, smiling. ‘I want to experience that freedom too.’ As they walked through the bustling streets together, Sarah smiled, knowing that true independence was something one had to discover on their own—and it was a journey that had only just begun for both of them.
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