German word

eigenständig

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈaɪ̯gn̩ˌʃtɛndɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectiveindependent

Example

Sie traf eine eigenständige Entscheidung.

She made an independent decision.

Illustration for eigenständig (independent)

More examples

Im Beruf zeigt er eigenständiges Denken.

At work, he demonstrates independent thinking.

Core concept

A person or project stands on its own basis, using its own judgment instead of waiting for outside direction.

Common phrases

  • eine eigenständige Entscheidung

    an independent decision

  • eigenständiges Denken

    independent thinking

  • eigenständige Arbeit

    independent work

Similar words

selbstständig: Able to deal with problems or make decisions independently.
unabhängig: Able to act or decide without relying on outside factors or opinions.

Definition in German

Unabhängig und aus eigener Quelle vorhanden oder tätig.

Word origin

Eigenständig combines eigen ('one's own') with ständig, historically related to stehen ('to stand'), expressing something that stands as its own.

Usage tips

  • Eigenständig often describes a decision, method, or operation, so it need not mean financial or personal independence.

Other meanings

  • self-sufficientadjective
  • autonomousadjective
  • originaladjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word