SELF-RELIANCE Synonyms: 20 Similar and Opposite Words

self-reliance

noun

ˌself-ri-ˈlī-ənts

Definition of self-reliance

as in independence

the ability to care for one's self some people don't achieve self-reliance until they're over 30 years old

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of self-reliance That type of self-reliance and rugged individualism — as different as everybody is, most Americans have some belief in that idea. — Charley Crockett, Rolling Stone, 19 May 2026 As America celebrates 250 years, the West's vast landscape sets a stunning backdrop for the nation's history of expansion, self-reliance and opportunity. — Alia Beard Rau, USA Today, 10 June 2026 Informal economic activity, self-reliance and community connection were vital lifelines. — Carla Vecchiola, The Conversation, 26 June 2026 China’s focus on technology self-reliance has minted a new billionaire as investors pile into the shares of semiconductor component maker Chongqing Genori Technology. — Yue Wang, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-reliance

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-reliance

Noun

Unlike the 13 colonies that declared independence from Britain, both Florida colonies remained loyal to the British Crown throughout the American Revolution, according to historian and author Mike Bunn.

— Hank Tester, CBS News, 1 July 2026
The marker commemorates those who fought for independence in the Revolutionary War.

— Alexandra Phelps, Miami Herald, 30 June 2026

Definition of independence

Noun

Unlike physical aggression, coercive control operates through monitoring, intimidation, isolation, guilt and restrictions on a partner’s autonomy.

— Mark Travers, CNBC, 5 July 2026
Today, Tibet retains autonomy but remains under political, military, and administrative control from China.

— David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 3 July 2026

Definition of autonomy

Noun

Building proprietary silicon takes years of engineering iteration before a company reaches anything close to self-sufficiency, and the clearest proof is the company furthest along.

— Jon Markman, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
The surge in popularity is driven for a desire for self-sufficiency, supplemental income, and access to fresh food, according to the home garden magazine.

— Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 17 June 2026

Definition of self-sufficiency

Browse Nearby Words

self-regulating

self-reliance

self-reliant

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“Self-reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-reliance. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of self-reliance

noun

Example Sentences

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