self-sufficiency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "self-sufficiency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the ability to provide for oneself without external assistance, often in contexts related to economics, personal development, or sustainability. Example: "The community focused on self-sufficiency by growing their own food and generating their own energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bavaria talks of self-sufficiency.

The Economist

His point: self-sufficiency.

The New York Times

Self-sufficiency became the watchword.

The Economist

Self-sufficiency is deeply appealing.

The Guardian - Film

His self-sufficiency was glamorous.

The New York Times - Magazine

Another was the subtext of self-sufficiency.

The New Yorker

The party has traditionally stressed self-sufficiency.

The Economist

The accounts reveal financial self-sufficiency.

Independent

Still, he revelled in self-sufficiency.

The New Yorker

Self-sufficiency is neither attainable nor desirable.

The New Yorker

The solution, he said, is self-sufficiency.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "self-sufficiency", clarify the area you're referring to (e.g., food, energy, financial) for better context and understanding.

Common error

Avoid framing "self-sufficiency" as complete isolation. It often involves strategic partnerships or community engagement, not absolute independence from all external systems.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "self-sufficiency" is as a noun. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting the state or quality of being self-sufficient. Ludwig provides examples such as "Bavaria talks of self-sufficiency" and "Self-sufficiency is deeply appealing", illustrating its use as a central concept.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

14%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "self-sufficiency" is a noun that refers to the ability to provide for oneself without external aid, a concept often discussed in contexts ranging from personal development to national economics. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and very common, with usage spanning news media, academia, and scientific literature. When using "self-sufficiency", it's important to clarify the area of focus (e.g., food, energy) and avoid equating it with complete isolation, as strategic collaboration often plays a key role. Related terms like "independence" and "self-reliance" offer nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context. The phrase is generally neutral to formal, making it suitable for a wide range of communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Independence

Focuses on freedom from external control or influence, emphasizing autonomy.

Self-reliance

Highlights the ability to depend on one's own capabilities and resources.

Autonomy

Emphasizes self-governance and the capacity to make independent decisions.

Resourcefulness

Stresses the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.

Self-determination

Highlights the power to control one's own life and destiny without external coercion.

Economic independence

Specifically denotes freedom from financial reliance on others, emphasizing fiscal autonomy.

Financial self-reliance

Specifically highlights the ability to provide for oneself through financial means.

Personal autonomy

Emphasizes individual freedom and self-governance in personal matters.

Individual responsibility

Underlines the duty and capability of individuals to handle their own affairs.

Self-government

Suggests the capacity of a group or nation to rule itself without external interference.

FAQs

How is "self-sufficiency" used in a sentence?

"Self-sufficiency" is used to describe the ability to provide for one's own needs without relying on others. For example: "The family aimed for complete self-sufficiency by growing their own food and generating their own power."

What's the difference between "self-sufficiency" and "self-reliance"?

While both terms relate to independence, "self-sufficiency" implies the ability to completely fulfill one's needs independently, whereas "self-reliance" emphasizes the ability to depend on one's own capabilities and judgment, potentially in conjunction with some external support.

What are some synonyms for "self-sufficiency"?

Alternatives to "self-sufficiency" include "independence", "autonomy", and "self-reliance". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "self-sufficiency" always a positive goal?

While often seen as positive, striving for complete "self-sufficiency" can sometimes be impractical or inefficient. A balanced approach that combines personal capability with strategic collaboration may be more sustainable.