sufficient unto itself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sufficient unto itself" is correct and usable in written English.
It means that something is self-sufficient and does not require any additional support or assistance. You can use this phrase when describing something or someone that is independent and can function on its own without outside help. For example: - "The small island was sufficient unto itself, with its own sources of food and water." - "The plant is designed to be sufficient unto itself, with a built-in watering system and self-fertilization capabilities." - "She was a strong, confident woman, sufficient unto herself and not in need of a man to complete her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Her society seemed too closed, sufficient unto itself.

The New Yorker

For the most part, it simply is: powerful, beautiful, tranquil or treacherous; constantly changing but sufficient unto itself.

The Guardian - Books

That is, she sees movement as something to be explored and does not regard the 350-year-old ballet idiom as a given, a vocabulary sufficient unto itself.

The New York Times - Arts

The Brexit camp conjures up the Britain of 1940 – standing alone, a race apart, an island that has always been sufficient unto itself.

The Guardian - Opinion

Clad in glacially chic ensembles that bring to mind Hitchcock heroines (Gyorgyi Szakacs is the costume designer), this Yelena suggests a Keatsian object of beauty, sufficient unto itself.

The New York Times

Each signature is sufficient unto itself -- the winking pomp of Iz the Wiz, the casual boldness of Dez, the exuberant self-promotional flair of "Crash," with flashing quotes around the airy, underlined tag.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

And on Sunday there's a sufficient-unto-itself single bill of Leo McCarey's 1937 masterpiece "The Awful Truth," with Cary Grant and Irene Dunne, at 2, 4 30, 6 50 and 9 15 p.m.

The New York Times

My self as it was, unimproved upon by external aids, unencumbered by the dictates of the marketplace, seemed, briefly enough, sufficient unto itself..

The New York Times

Every act of mercy is a sufficient kindness unto itself.

The New York Times - Magazine

Nader was sufficient unto himself.

The New Yorker

-- the one and only, sufficient unto himself, outside the action, uniquely immobile!

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sufficient unto itself" when you want to emphasize a strong sense of independence and completeness, especially in philosophical or literary contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "sufficient unto itself" in everyday conversations; it can sound pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "self-sufficient" or "independent" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sufficient unto itself" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes something that is complete and independent, not requiring anything else for its existence or operation. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sufficient unto itself" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, as affirmed by Ludwig. It conveys the idea of completeness and independence. While considered correct, it leans towards formality and is less common in everyday speech. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific discussions. Remember to consider the context and audience when choosing between "sufficient unto itself" and simpler alternatives like "self-sufficient" or "independent". Ultimately, the phrase effectively communicates self-reliance and autonomy when used appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-sufficient

A more common and direct synonym emphasizing the ability to provide for oneself.

independent

Highlights the freedom from external control or influence.

self-contained

Focuses on completeness within its own boundaries.

autonomous

Implies self-governance and the ability to make independent decisions.

self-reliant

Emphasizes dependence on one's own capabilities and resources.

complete in itself

Highlights that no external element is necessary.

needing nothing else

Directly states the lack of requirement for external support.

self-sustaining

Emphasizes the ability to maintain oneself over time without outside assistance.

a world of its own

Describes an entity that functions independently and has its own unique characteristics.

answerable to no one

Highlights autonomy and lack of external oversight.

FAQs

How can I use "sufficient unto itself" in a sentence?

You can use "sufficient unto itself" to describe something that is complete and doesn't need external support. For instance, "The artist's vision was "sufficient unto itself", requiring no external validation".

What are some alternatives to "sufficient unto itself"?

Alternatives include "self-sufficient", "independent", or "self-contained". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "sufficient unto itself" a formal expression?

Yes, "sufficient unto itself" is generally considered a formal expression. It's more common in writing and philosophical contexts than in casual conversation. In everyday speech, alternatives like "self-sufficient" may be more appropriate.

What does it mean for something to be "sufficient unto itself"?

When something is described as "sufficient unto itself", it means that it is complete and doesn't require any external support or additions. It's able to function or exist independently. This is similar to saying it's "self-contained" or "independent".