self-government

[self-guhv-ern-muhnt, -er-muhnt, self-] / ˌsɛlfˈgʌv ərn mənt, -ər mənt, ˈsɛlf- /

NOUN

freedom

Synonyms

STRONGEST

autonomy discretion flexibility immunity independence sovereignty

STRONG

abandon abandonment ability bent compass exemption facility independency indulgence latitude laxity leeway liberty margin opportunity play power prerogative privilege profligacy range rein right rope scope sweep swing unrestraint

WEAK

carte blanche elbowroom free rein full play full swing laissez faire own accord plenty of rope rampancy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

dependence

STRONG

extreme impotence inability incompetence limitation restraint weakness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is already happening in Washington, where the Home Rule Act of 1973, which gave the city limited self-government, allows Congress oversight.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

They want their own right of self-determination and self-government in their Native nations.

From Slate • Mar. 16, 2026

Danes returning after the war found a population that wanted self-government.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 24, 2026

Her hands are tied by D.C.’s unique status under the Home Rule Act, which granted limited self-government to the District.

From Salon • Sep. 6, 2025

Important historically, these were the free people encountered by France and Britain—personifications of democratic self-government so vivid that some historians and activists have argued that the Great Law of Peace directly inspired the U.S.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

Vocabulary lists containing self-government

The American Revolution - Introductory

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The American Revolution - Middle School and High School

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History of India - Introductory

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