eigenständigen

Eigenständig is a German adjective meaning independent or autonomous. The form eigenständigen is an inflected variant used in various grammatical cases, numbers, and genders. As with many German adjectives, the ending of eigenständig changes to agree with the noun it modifies and the surrounding article or determiner.

In usage, eigenständig describes something that operates or exists on its own, without being dependent on a larger group or external control. It is commonly applied to people, organizations, ideas, or processes that have their own standing or distinct functioning. Examples include eigenständige Lösungen (standalone solutions), eigenständige Forschung (independent research), or eigenständige Entscheidungen (autonomous decisions). The nuance often emphasizes internal capability, accountability, or self-direction rather than mere separation from others.

Grammatically, eigenständig follows standard German adjective inflection. For example:

- Ohne article: eigenständige Ideen (plural nominative/accusative), eigenständige Lösung (singular feminine nominative).

- With definite article: das eigenständige Unternehmen (neuter singular nominative), dem eigenständigen Unternehmen (neuter singular dative), die eigenständigen Unternehmen (plural nominative).

- In phrases like mit eigenständigen Ideen, is used in the plural dative.

Synonyms include selbstständig, autonom, unabhängig. While closely related, selbstständig can emphasize the ability to work on one’s own, whereas eigenständig highlights being self-contained or possessing independent status or character.

Overall, eigenständigen is a common, context-driven inflected form essential for expressing independence in German, usable across business, academia, politics, and everyday language.