autonomy
Say it: aw-TON-uh-mee /ɔˈtɑnəmi/ · noun
What “autonomy” means
Freedom to decide how you do your own work.
More precisely: The freedom to make your own decisions and manage your own work.
Example: “Give talented people autonomy and they usually rise to it.”
When to use it
At work, when discussing how much freedom someone has to choose their methods and manage tasks. It is neutral business language.
Similar words
independence, self-direction, freedom
Where it comes from
From Greek autonomos, "having its own laws."
Quick check
Your manager sets the goal but lets you choose your hours, tools and approach. What have you been given?
supervision or autonomy?
Show the answer
autonomy
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