Self reliance Meaning and Definition
Self Reliance
Pronunciation
/ˈsɛlf rɪˈlaɪəns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The state of being able to manage and maintain one’s own life, without relying on others or external factors, often demonstrated through self-sufficiency, resilience, and adaptability.
Examples
- She developed a sense of self-reliance through her experiences as a solo traveler.
- The community supported each other in building self-reliance through sustainable practices.
Synonyms
- Independence
- Self-sufficiency
Antonyms
- Dependence
- Subservience
Etymology
The term ‘Self Reliance’ originates from the 19th-century American transcendentalist philosophy, emphasizing individual freedom and personal responsibility.
Usage Notes
When using ‘Self Reliance’, it’s essential to maintain context and avoid confusion with related concepts like self-reliant, self-sufficient, or autonomy.
Cultural References
References to self-reliance can be seen in various works, including Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Self-Reliance” and John Steinbeck’s novel “Of Mice and Men”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Excessive dependence, for instance, can be seen as a lack of self-reliance, while phrases like “rugged individualism” convey a sense of self-reliance.
Related Words or Phrases
Other words and phrases related to self-reliance include self-sufficiency, resourcefulness, adaptability, and resilience.
Collocations
Collocations with ‘Self Reliance’ include phrases like “personal self-reliance”, “community self-reliance”, or “economic self-reliance”.
Frequency of Use
Self-reliance has become a widely discussed concept, especially in contemporary times, with increased emphasis on individual empowerment, sustainability, and resilience.
Common Misspellings
Frequent misspellings of ‘Self Reliance’ include ‘Selfreliance’, ‘Selfreliant’, or ‘Selreliance’.