symbol of autonomy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "symbol of autonomy" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to convey the idea that something embodies or stands for the concept of autonomy or independence. For example, "The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of autonomy for many Americans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

This in turn made me realize, a little more empathetically, what I had only intuited before that guns, for many Americans, are a sort of secondary, symbolic car: another powerful symbol of autonomy and independence.

The New Yorker

This in turn made me realize, a little more empathetically, what I had only intuited before — that guns, for many Americans, are a sort of secondary, symbolic car: another powerful symbol of autonomy and independence.

The New Yorker

There remains no greater symbol of autonomy — of rallying against expectation and desire — than the domestic cat.

The New Yorker

Guns, for many Americans, are a powerful symbol of autonomy and independence; to have potentially lethal power within your grasp is an immensely empowering drug.

The New Yorker

In Rome a statue of Marsyas, a favourite art subject, stood in the Forum; this was imitated by Roman colonies and came to be considered a symbol of autonomy.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

For the deeper truth is that cars are not, or not only, symbols of autonomy.

The New Yorker

Here is a guide to drawing a nuclear logo, illustrated by a monkey and a bear-child, two symbols of autonomy and defiance guaranteed to freak the Japanese authorities into nuclear reform.

Vice

A symbol of Basque autonomy, the Basque police -- known as the Ertzaintza -- are controlled by the local authorities and not by the central government in Madrid.

The New York Times

The park was a symbol of community autonomy and self-determination that many feel must be preserved as a touchstone of the historic societal changes of the times, and as a memorial to victims of the police action in 1969.

University of California, Berkeley

Mrs. Chan, appointed by the last British governor, Chris Patten, as the independent director of Hong Kong's non-political civil service, has made herself a symbol of the autonomy China pledged to respect in Hong Kong when it resumed sovereignty over the territory in 1997.

The New York Times

Gramscian analysis highlights key roles of both the state and civil society in the promotion of science and technology as a tool of economic growth and as a symbol of national autonomy.

Johns Hopkins University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "symbol of autonomy", consider the specific aspect of autonomy you wish to emphasize, such as independence, self-governance, or freedom, to ensure the context is clear.

Common error

Avoid using "symbol of autonomy" in contexts where it might imply complete isolation or lack of interdependence. Autonomy often exists within a network of relationships and responsibilities, not as a state of absolute detachment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "symbol of autonomy" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or appositive, identifying or describing something that represents independence and self-determination. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

21%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "symbol of autonomy" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to identify something as representing independence and self-governance. While its frequency is uncommon, the phrase appears most often in news media and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. Understanding the nuances of "autonomy" – such as its emphasis on self-governance versus mere independence – is crucial for its accurate and impactful use. Remember, the phrase implies more than just freedom from external control; it suggests a capacity for self-direction and decision-making. When using "symbol of autonomy", consider the specific facet of autonomy to highlight for clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

emblem of self-governance

Replaces "autonomy" with "self-governance", which emphasizes the aspect of control.

hallmark of self-determination

Uses "self-determination" to emphasize the power to make one's own choices.

image of self-rule

Replaces "autonomy" with "self-rule", emphasizing the governing aspect.

representation of independence

Focuses on the act of representing independence rather than autonomy itself.

token of independence

Replaces "symbol" with "token", which suggests a tangible representation.

signifier of freedom

Uses "freedom" instead of "autonomy", highlighting the liberty aspect.

expression of liberty

Focuses on the expression of freedom and independence.

marker of sovereign power

Focuses on the power aspect of autonomy, especially in a political context.

manifestation of independence

Emphasizes the act of independence being shown or displayed.

representation of self-reliance

Highlights the aspect of being able to depend on oneself.

FAQs

How can I use "symbol of autonomy" in a sentence?

You can use "symbol of autonomy" to describe something that represents independence or self-governance, for example: "For many Americans, guns are a powerful "symbol of autonomy" and independence."

What's a good alternative to "symbol of autonomy"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "representation of independence", "emblem of self-governance", or "signifier of freedom".

Is it better to say "symbol of autonomy" or "symbol of independence"?

While both are related, "autonomy" emphasizes self-governance and control, whereas "independence" focuses on freedom from external control. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when something is described as a "symbol of autonomy"?

It means that the thing in question represents the concept of self-governance, independence, or the ability to make one's own choices without external control. It embodies the idea of being self-ruling.