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.

America’s experiment in self-government has always depended on wisdom and self-control.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

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

Those frustrations built until a 2009 self-government act, approved by three-quarters of Greenland voters, which charted a path for independence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

Her grandfather signed a petition against Irish self-government in 1912, when the whole island was still part of the UK.

From BBC • Sep. 14, 2025

The only legitimate form of government, in the end, was self-government.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

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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