# autonomously

/ˌɔˈtɑnoʊməsɫi/ (US) · /ɔːtˈɒnəməsli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/autonomously
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

on your own, without help or control from other people. You use it when a person, group, or machine makes its own choices and acts by itself.

For teachers: in a self-governing or independent way, without outside control or direction. Often describes machines, teams, or institutions operating under their own rules or programming.

## Examples

- She works autonomously without daily supervision.
- The delivery drones fly autonomously across the city, avoiding buildings and landing safely on balconies.
- Modern telescopes track distant galaxies autonomously through the night, adjusting for atmospheric distortion while astronomers sleep.

## Synonyms

independently

## Usage notes

- Manner adverb — typically placed after the verb or at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.