# independently

/ˌɪndɪˈpɛndəntɫi/ (US) · /ˌɪndɪpˈɛndəntli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/independently
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

without help or control from other people. You use this when you do something on your own or make your own decisions.

For teachers: in a manner that is free from outside control or influence; autonomously. Often describes actions performed without financial or logistical support from others.

## Examples

- She finished the difficult project independently.
- The two researchers worked independently on the same problem before comparing their results at the end of the month.
- Although the department is part of the larger university, it operates independently, managing its own budget and hiring its own staff without oversight from the central administration.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He lives independent." but "He lives independently." — Learners often use the adjective 'independent' when the adverbial form 'independently' is required to modify the verb.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed after the verb or at the end of the clause to describe how an action is performed.

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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.