unabhängig

Unabhängig is a German adjective and adverb that describes being free from external control or influence, and capable of making decisions on one’s own. The term is formed with the prefix un- attached to abhängig (dependent). It is related to the noun Unabhängigkeit (independence) and to synonyms such as eigenständig and autonom. In usage, unabhängig is applied to persons, institutions, economies, and states to express autonomy or self-determination.

Personal independence: “Ich bin finanziell unabhängig” means able to support oneself financially. “Unabhängig bleiben” refers to staying free from manipulation or control, e.g., in relationships or career decisions.

Political and institutional independence: “unabhängige Behörden” or “unabhängige Medien” refer to bodies or media outlets not controlled by political parties or government. The noun form, Unabhängigkeit, denotes freedom from external control, such as territorial independence or economic independence. Historical contexts include independence movements and the declaration of independence.

Adverbial use and nuances: “unabhängig davon” means regardless of that. “Unabhängig arbeiten” conveys work performed without dependence on others. Antonyms: abhängig; related terms: eigenständig, autonom, selbstständig.

See also: Unabhängigkeit, Selbstständigkeit, Autonomie.