self-sufficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "self-sufficient" is correct and can be used in written English.
It usually means having the ability or resources to provide for oneself without assistance or outside help. For example, "The family was able to become self-sufficient by growing their own food."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Humankind was self-sufficient.

The Economist

We are self-sufficient.

The Guardian

"It's very self-sufficient".

The New York Times

Kimolos is happily self-sufficient.

Independent

And she's been self-sufficient.

The New York Times - Books

He was completely self-sufficient".

The New York Times

Will America be self-sufficient?

The Economist

They felt self-sufficient.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"We are pretty self sufficient.

The New York Times

"I'm un-self-sufficient," he says.

The Guardian - Sport

Be more self sufficient.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person, use "self-sufficient" to highlight their independence and ability to manage their own affairs without relying on others. For systems or communities, it emphasizes the capability to function without external inputs or support.

Common error

Avoid using "self-sufficient" when "independent" or "autonomous" might be more appropriate. "Self-sufficient" specifically implies the ability to provide for oneself, whereas "independent" refers to freedom from external control and "autonomous" relates to self-governance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "self-sufficient" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe their ability to provide for their own needs without external assistance. Ludwig's AI validates this, confirming its role in depicting independence and resourcefulness, as seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "self-sufficient" is a versatile adjective indicating the ability to provide for oneself without external assistance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its proper use denotes independence and resourcefulness across various contexts. While commonly found in news articles and general discussions, be mindful of selecting precise synonyms like "independent" or "self-reliant" to suit specific nuances. Remember to reserve "self-sufficient" to convey the capability to fully provide for oneself, as it carries specific implications beyond mere independence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-reliant

Emphasizes the reliance on one's own capabilities and judgment.

self-dependent

Underscores the reliance on one's own capabilities and resources.

self-sustaining

Highlights the ability to maintain oneself or a system without external assistance, often in an environmental or economic context.

able to stand on one's own feet

This idiom emphasizes the ability to be independent and manage one's own life without help.

independent

Focuses more on freedom from external control or influence, rather than the ability to provide for oneself.

self-directing

Highlights the ability to guide and manage one's own actions and goals.

autonomous

Stresses the capacity for self-governance or self-regulation.

self-governing

Focuses on the ability to control and manage one's own affairs or territory.

resourceful

Highlights the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties.

capable

Emphasizes competence and skill in managing one's affairs.

FAQs

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

You can use "self-sufficient" to describe someone or something that is capable of providing for its own needs without external assistance. For example, "The community aimed to become "self-sufficient" by growing its own food and generating its own energy."

What are some alternatives to saying "self-sufficient"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "independent", "self-reliant", or "self-sustaining".

Is it correct to say "mostly self-sufficient"?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to use "mostly self-sufficient" to indicate a state where something or someone is largely, but not completely, able to provide for their own needs. This implies a high degree of independence but acknowledges some reliance on external resources.

What is the difference between "self-sufficient" and "self-reliant"?

"Self-sufficient" refers to the ability to provide for all of one's needs, while "self-reliant" focuses on depending on one's own capabilities and judgment, even if external resources are utilized. Therefore, one can be "self-reliant" without being entirely "self-sufficient".