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Showing results for self-government. Search instead for semigovernment.
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.

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 24, 2026

The opposing argument begins with a simple intuition: In a society defined by self-government, as America is, there is no such thing as citizenship without consent.

From Salon • Dec. 9, 2025

Her hands are tied by D.C.’s unique status under the Home Rule Act, which granted limited self-government to the District.

From Salon • Sep. 6, 2025

The original six were motivated by the ambition to promote the Welsh language and its culture, as well as securing self-government for Wales.

From BBC • Aug. 5, 2025

The foundation of self-government was that all men were free to voice their opinions and equal in their value as citizens.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela