be self-sufficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be self-sufficient" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is capable of providing for themselves without external assistance. Example: "In order to thrive in the wilderness, one must learn to be self-sufficient and rely on their own skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Will America be self-sufficient?

The Economist

This forced Ikaria to be self-sufficient.

The New York Times - Magazine

We need to be self-sufficient.

The New York Times

Visitors need to be self-sufficient, too.

Independent

"There will always be self-sufficient bands".

The Guardian - Music

Regulators require each to be self-sufficient.

The New York Times

"We used to be self-sufficient here.

The Guardian

The goal is to simply be self-sufficient.

The New York Times - Arts

In business, Meade learned to be self-sufficient.

The New York Times - Sports

Earthships can be self-sufficient in food, water and energy.

The Guardian

They built a cabin and strove to be self-sufficient.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be self-sufficient", specify the area of self-sufficiency to provide clarity. For example, "be self-sufficient in food production" or "be self-sufficient financially".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the extent of self-sufficiency. Few individuals or systems are entirely independent. Acknowledge dependencies where they exist to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be self-sufficient" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, describing the state or quality of a subject. It indicates the capacity to provide for one's own needs without external assistance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be self-sufficient" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying the ability to provide for oneself without external aid. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is accurate and appropriate for English writing. It appears predominantly in news and media, with notable presence in formal business and scientific contexts, making it a versatile term. When using the phrase, remember to specify the area of self-sufficiency for clarity and avoid exaggerating the extent of independence. Consider using alternatives like "be independent" or "be self-reliant" to add nuance. Therefore, "be self-sufficient" is a powerful phrase to use to refer to being able to provide for yourself.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be independent

Focuses on general autonomy and not relying on others.

be self-reliant

Emphasizes confidence in one's own abilities and resources.

be autonomous

Highlights the capability of self-governance and decision-making.

be self-sustaining

Implies the ability to maintain oneself or a system without external support.

provide for oneself

Directly addresses the act of meeting one's own needs.

stand on one's own two feet

An idiomatic expression signifying independence and self-support.

be able to cope on one's own

Focuses on managing challenges and difficulties independently.

be resourceful

Highlights the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

fend for oneself

Suggests a degree of self-sufficiency, often in a challenging environment.

be self-governing

Relates to the capacity to control and regulate oneself without outside influence.

FAQs

How can I use "be self-sufficient" in a sentence?

You can use "be self-sufficient" to describe someone or something capable of providing for their own needs without external help. For example, "The goal is to "be self-sufficient" in energy within the next decade".

What is a good alternative to "be self-sufficient"?

Alternatives to "be self-sufficient" include "be independent", "be self-reliant", or "be autonomous". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to "be self-sufficient"?

To "be self-sufficient" means to have the ability to provide for your own needs without relying on others. This can apply to individuals, communities, or even countries.

Is "be self-sufficient" the same as "be independent"?

While related, "be self-sufficient" and "be independent" are not exactly the same. "Be independent" generally means not being controlled or influenced by others, while "be self-sufficient" specifically refers to the ability to provide for one's own needs.