autonomous region

USAGE SUMMARY

"autonomous region" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a region or territory that has a degree of self-governance and control over its own affairs, separate from the central government. Example: "The Catalonia region in Spain is known as an autonomous region with its own distinct culture and language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In April 1995 Príncipe became an autonomous region.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hui Autonomous Region of Ningxia, China.

Britannica

The area's official name is still the Jewish Autonomous Region.

The New Yorker

However, there is no such autonomous region in Kazakhstan.

The Washington Post

Administratively, they form the autonomous region of Madeira.

Britannica

Street in Hailar, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China.

Britannica

Crimea votes on whether the autonomous region should join Russia.

The Washington Post

The Jewish Autonomous Region is wonderful as it is.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Kurds in the northeast already have a semi-autonomous region.

The New York Times

Catalonia is already a semi-autonomous region in northeastern Spain.

Huffington Post

The semi-autonomous region of Aceh, in northern Sumatra, is an especially intolerant area.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "autonomous region", ensure you clearly define the specific powers and limitations of its self-governance to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all "autonomous regions" possess the same level of independence; the degree of self-governance can vary significantly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "autonomous region" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "autonomous" modifies the noun "region". It designates a specific type of geographical area with a degree of self-governance. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in describing various regions around the world.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "autonomous region" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe areas with a degree of self-governance within a larger state. As Ludwig highlights, it appears frequently in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. The level of autonomy can vary greatly, so it's important to specify the extent of self-governance when using the phrase. While alternatives like "self-governing territory" exist, "autonomous region" remains a clear and widely understood descriptor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-governing territory

Emphasizes the self-governance aspect, highlighting the territory's ability to manage its own affairs.

independent territory

Highlights the independence of the territory from external control.

self-ruling region

Focuses on the region's capacity to govern itself without external interference.

semi-autonomous area

Indicates a partial degree of autonomy, suggesting some limitations in self-governance.

devolved territory

Specifies that powers have been transferred from a central government.

self-determined zone

Highlights the right of the zone to determine its own future and governance.

federated state

Suggests integration within a larger federation while retaining a level of autonomy.

dependent territory

Highlights the dependency status of the territory.

protectorate

Highlights the protection by another sovereign state.

associated state

Highlights the free association with a more powerful state.

FAQs

How to use "autonomous region" in a sentence?

You can use "autonomous region" to describe an area with some self-governing authority, for example, "The Kurdish region in Iraq is an "autonomous region" with its own government and laws."

What is the difference between "autonomous region" and "independent country"?

An ""autonomous region"" has a degree of self-governance but remains part of a larger country, while an "independent country" is a sovereign state with complete self-governance and no higher authority.

What are some examples of "autonomous regions" around the world?

Examples include Catalonia in Spain, the Tibet Autonomous Region in China, and the Kurdish Region in Iraq.

What factors lead to the creation of an "autonomous region"?

Creation of an ""autonomous region"" often stems from unique cultural, ethnic, or historical factors that lead a region to seek greater control over its own affairs within a larger state.