1
as in choice
the act or power of making one's own choices or decisions
the United States officially recognizes 18 as the age at which someone is entitled to self-determination
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in autonomy
the state of being free from the control or power of another
rebels fighting for the territory's self-determination
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of self-determination
Defying her oppressive rural Protestant community, Emma embarks on a journey of self-determination, transforming her trauma into a catalyst for emancipation while confronting the moral hypocrisy of her village and the lingering shadows of World War II.
—
Leo Barraclough, Variety, 22 July 2025
The definition states that some critiques of Israel as a Jewish state may cross a line into antisemitism, such as denying the Jewish people’s right to self-determination or claiming that the existence of Israel is a racist endeavor.
—Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 16 July 2025
The responses highlighted that, for some people, freedom encompasses feeling safe, exercising the right to self-determination, and recognizing our responsibility to others.
—Brittney Melton, NPR, 4 July 2025
And the reaction exposed more than discomfort but further pointed to the broader cultural tension around Black self-determination and authenticity in corporate spaces.
—Sughnen Yongo, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-determination
Leo Barraclough, Variety, 22 July 2025
The definition states that some critiques of Israel as a Jewish state may cross a line into antisemitism, such as denying the Jewish people’s right to self-determination or claiming that the existence of Israel is a racist endeavor.
—Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 16 July 2025
The responses highlighted that, for some people, freedom encompasses feeling safe, exercising the right to self-determination, and recognizing our responsibility to others.
—Brittney Melton, NPR, 4 July 2025
And the reaction exposed more than discomfort but further pointed to the broader cultural tension around Black self-determination and authenticity in corporate spaces.
—Sughnen Yongo, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-determination
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-determination
Noun
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The city's choice to close fewer homeless camps in recent years differs from some communities that have banned public camping and a new Trump directive to remove people from the streets.—
Jordan Smith,
IndyStar,
26 July 2025
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Between the heat and sweltering humidity, long pants aren’t typically our first choice when getting dressed in the summer.—
Emily Weaver,
People.com,
26 July 2025
Noun
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Instead, managers should empower teams with clear goals, autonomy and accountability.—
Expert Panel®,
Forbes.com,
28 July 2025
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Even so, ever since Trump took office for a second time and started to consolidate his control over the entire federal government—including supposedly independent agencies—the autonomy of the Fed has again been called into question.—
John Cassidy,
New Yorker,
28 July 2025
Noun
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The East Asian neighbors have two ongoing disputes in the East China Sea: one over the sovereignty of the uninhabited Senkaku island group—administered by Tokyo but claimed by Beijing as the Diaoyu Islands—and the other over energy exploration in the region.—
Ryan Chan,
MSNBC Newsweek,
14 July 2025
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With strong regulatory foresight and a commitment to digital sovereignty, the region is turning trust and transparency into competitive advantages.—
Sandy Carter,
Forbes.com,
14 July 2025
Noun
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This funding will help provide the tools and resources these new young adults need to obtain temporary housing, bridging the gap between foster care and independence.—
Reader Commentary,
Baltimore Sun,
29 July 2025
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China’s diplomatic rhetoric emphasizes its commitment to national sovereignty and independence and its opposition to the use of force against other states—principles that align with the UN Charter and that reflect Ukraine’s position.—
Da Wei,
Foreign Affairs,
29 July 2025
Noun
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This is suitable for gamers who want the freedom of a wireless connection but with the agility of a USB connection.—
Mark Sparrow,
Forbes.com,
23 July 2025
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Throughout his directing career, Eastwood has translated his belief in personal responsibility and personal freedom—an ideal of independence—into art.—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
23 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Self-determination.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-determination. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
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