Definitions

self-government

[self-guhv-ern-muhnt, -er-muhnt, self-] / ˌsɛlfˈgʌv ərn mənt, -ər mənt, ˈsɛlf- /

NOUN

freedom

Synonyms

STRONGEST

autonomy discretion flexibility immunity independence sovereignty

STRONG

abandon abandonment ability bent compass exemption facility independency indulgence latitude laxity leeway liberty margin opportunity play power prerogative privilege profligacy range rein right rope scope sweep swing unrestraint

WEAK

carte blanche elbowroom free rein full play full swing laissez faire own accord plenty of rope rampancy

Antonyms

STRONGEST

dependence

STRONG

extreme impotence inability incompetence limitation restraint weakness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is already happening in Washington, where the Home Rule Act of 1973, which gave the city limited self-government, allows Congress oversight.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

Danes returning after the war found a population that wanted self-government.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 24, 2026

Greenland, which has a population of 57,000 people, has had extensive self-government since 1979, though defence and foreign policy remain in Danish hands.

From BBC • Jan. 4, 2026

That isn’t the conduct of a movement preparing for responsible self-government.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 9, 2025

Yali explained to me his role in getting local people to prepare for self-government.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

Vocabulary lists containing self-government

The American Revolution - Introductory

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The American Revolution - Middle School and High School

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History of India - Introductory

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!