possesses complete autonomy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possesses complete autonomy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the independence or self-governing capabilities of an individual, organization, or entity. Example: "The new policy allows the department to possess complete autonomy in decision-making processes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Secondly, the definition of technology as the systematic study of techniques for making and doing things establishes technology as a social phenomenon and thus as one that cannot possess complete autonomy, unaffected by the society in which it exists.

Britannica

Elites seldom enjoy complete autonomy.

Britannica

Better to get out and gain complete autonomy.

The Guardian - Business

With biosonar as a sufficient far-sense, bats are capable of achieving complete autonomy in unconstrained natural environments.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

But Sir Martin objected to Mr. Dolan's plan for complete autonomy.

The New York Times

"But the play-caller has complete autonomy to call the game," Raye said, referring to Hackett.

The New York Times - Sports

Headteachers' hands are tied, for none in the comprehensive sector has complete autonomy to hire staff.

The Guardian - Opinion

Tells about the complete autonomy Moses had in housing, parks & transportation.

The New Yorker

The Patriot Association's constitution says the church has complete autonomy from the Vatican.

The New York Times

The chief executive of Fox News, Roger Ailes, has almost complete autonomy.

The New York Times

"Stacey has complete autonomy," said Mr. Meyer, a former talent agent who joined Universal in 1995, a year before Ms. Snider.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience. While grammatically correct, "possesses complete autonomy" can sound formal; choose more straightforward alternatives like "is fully independent" in informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "possesses complete autonomy" when the entity's independence is limited or subject to external regulations. Overstating autonomy can mislead the audience and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possesses complete autonomy" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to define the attributes or capabilities of a subject, emphasizing its self-governance and independence. It specifies the extent and nature of control an entity has over its own actions and decisions.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "possesses complete autonomy" is grammatically correct and is usable in formal English to express the idea of an entity having full self-governing capabilities. Given its absence from the provided examples, Ludwig indicates that the phrase might be relatively uncommon, suggesting more common alternatives like "has absolute independence" or "is fully independent" might be preferred in less formal contexts. When employing the phrase, ensure that the subject truly has unrestricted power and consider your audience to choose the most appropriate wording.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is fully independent

A more concise way of expressing the concept of complete autonomy, focusing on the state of being independent.

Functions autonomously

Simplifies the phrase by using the adverbial form of "autonomous", focusing on the manner of functioning.

Has absolute independence

Replaces "possesses" with the simpler "has" and "autonomy" with "independence", emphasizing the state of being independent.

Enjoys full self-governance

Uses "enjoys" to suggest a positive aspect of having self-governance, which is a more formal term for autonomy.

Is entirely self-regulating

Emphasizes the ability to regulate oneself without external intervention.

Exercises total control

Focuses on the aspect of control rather than autonomy, implying the ability to make all decisions.

Has unrestricted authority

Focuses on the aspect of authority, highlighting the absence of limitations.

Maintains complete sovereignty

Employs "sovereignty", a term often used in political contexts to denote supreme power or authority.

Manages its own affairs entirely

Highlights the practical aspect of autonomy, emphasizing the management of one's own affairs without external interference.

Operates with unrestricted freedom

Highlights the freedom from external constraints in decision-making and actions.

FAQs

How can I use "possesses complete autonomy" in a sentence?

You can use "possesses complete autonomy" to describe an entity that has full self-governing capabilities, for example: "The newly formed department "possesses complete autonomy" in its financial decisions."

What are some alternatives to "possesses complete autonomy"?

Alternatives include "has absolute independence", "enjoys full self-governance", or "is fully independent". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "has complete autonomy" or "possesses complete autonomy"?

"Has complete autonomy" is generally more common and sounds less formal. "Possesses complete autonomy" is grammatically correct but might be preferred in more formal writing or when emphasizing the inherent nature of the autonomy.

In what contexts is "possesses complete autonomy" most appropriate?

The phrase is appropriate in formal, legal, or academic contexts where precise language is important. It can be used to describe the status of a nation, organization, or even a system within a larger entity.