a feeling of autonomy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a feeling of autonomy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing personal independence or the sense of control one has over their own actions and decisions. Example: "After implementing flexible work hours, many employees reported a feeling of autonomy that boosted their productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"There's a feeling of autonomy in this city," said Lev Louriye, a newspaper columnist.

The New York Times

Even having a defined and limited set of options to choose from can provide a feeling of autonomy.

The Washington Post

"It has the advantage over its biological model for being linked to independent movement and a feeling of autonomy.

The New Yorker

Private kitchens or kitchenettes are viewed as essential for giving residents a feeling of autonomy, even if they are rarely used, and residents are usually encouraged to bring their own furniture.

The New York Times

Some other, wholly delusional fantasy of empowerment by a deadly weapon, of enhanced masculinity by lethal potential, of a feeling of autonomy achieved by the gleam of a gun barrel is more precious to you than the actual business of saving lives.

The New Yorker

"Preferred activities are more refreshing because they provide a feeling of autonomy and control, they are enjoyable, and they don't require additional resource expenditure," Hunter said. .

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

ICU nurses experience only a moderate feeling of autonomy and influence on sleeping practices.

Critical Care

[interview 2 – with COPD] These feelings of irritation may be connected with a strong feeling of autonomy.

BMC Family Practice

"We feel better when we have a feeling of competence and autonomy," he says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This may increase a feeling of connectedness and autonomy.

BMC Psychiatry

According to self-determination theory, a theory of human motivation and behavior, three innate psychological needs are the basis for autonomous motivation: 1) competence (i.e. having a feeling of efficacy), 2) autonomy (i.e. perceiving an internal locus of causality; having a feeling of free will) and 3) relatedness (i.e. having a sense of security and belonging) [ 55].

BMC Pediatrics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In designing elderly care facilities, prioritize features like private spaces to provide residents with "a feeling of autonomy" and independence.

Common error

Ensure that fostering "a feeling of autonomy" does not inadvertently lead to social isolation. Balance independence with opportunities for connection and support.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a feeling of autonomy" functions as a noun phrase. It often acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a state of perceived independence and control. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is grammatically correct. Examples show it qualifying experiences like empowerment or motivation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a feeling of autonomy" effectively captures the subjective experience of being in control and self-governed. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically correct and consistently applied across diverse contexts, especially in science and news media. While phrases like ""sense of independence"" and "sense of self-determination" offer similar meanings, they emphasize different aspects of freedom and control. When aiming to promote well-being or motivation, fostering this feeling, while considering potential downsides such as isolation, is essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sense of independence

Focuses more on the state of being free from external control, rather than the emotional experience.

a sense of self-governance

Emphasizes the aspect of controlling one's own actions and decisions.

a feeling of self-determination

Highlights the power to make choices about one's own life without coercion.

a feeling of control over one's life

Specifically addresses the sense of being in charge of one's personal circumstances.

a sense of personal agency

Stresses the capacity to act independently and make one's own free choices.

a feeling of empowerment

Highlights the experience of gaining power and control over one's situation.

a sense of volition

Emphasizes the act of making a conscious decision or choice.

a feeling of freedom

Focuses on the state of being unrestricted and unconstrained.

a sense of liberty

Highlights the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one’s way of life, behavior, or political views.

a sense of self-reliance

Emphasizes the ability to depend on oneself and one's own capabilities.

FAQs

How can I foster "a feeling of autonomy" in the workplace?

Empower employees by providing them with choices in how they complete their tasks. Allowing flexible work arrangements or providing opportunities for decision-making can significantly enhance their "sense of independence".

What is the difference between "a feeling of autonomy" and simply being independent?

"A feeling of autonomy" emphasizes the subjective experience of control and self-governance. While independence refers to the state of not being controlled by others, autonomy highlights the internal sensation of freedom and choice.

In what contexts is it important to cultivate "a feeling of autonomy"?

Cultivating "a feeling of autonomy" is particularly important in contexts such as education, healthcare, and the workplace, where individuals benefit from having control over their learning, treatment, and work processes, respectively. It leads to increased motivation and self-esteem.

What are some alternatives to "a feeling of autonomy" that emphasize different aspects of independence?

Depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, you can use phrases like "sense of self-determination" to highlight the power to make choices, "sense of personal agency" to stress the capacity to act independently, or "feeling of empowerment" to emphasize gaining control.