While both "independent" and "autonomous" suggest freedom from external control, there's a subtle yet important distinction. "Independent" generally means free from the influence or control of others, often in a self-reliant way. Think of an independent bookstore – it's not part of a chain. "Autonomous," on the other hand, implies self-governance and the right to self-determination. It often suggests a higher degree of self-regulation and control, sometimes even implying a degree of separation or sovereignty.

Here are some examples to illustrate the difference:

• Independent: "She's an independent woman who makes her own decisions." (Meaning: She is not controlled by anyone else in her decision-making.) Translation: This sentence means that she is free from other people's control in her life choices.
• Autonomous: "The region declared itself an autonomous republic." (Meaning: The region governs itself without external interference.) Translation: This sentence signifies that the region has the right to govern itself and is free from outside control.
• Independent: "He's an independent contractor, setting his own hours and rates." (Meaning: He is not employed by a company and works for himself.) Translation: The meaning is that he is not controlled by a company, having his own hours and rate of pay.
• Autonomous: "The university has an autonomous research department." (Meaning: The department operates independently with its own internal decision-making processes.) Translation: This implies that the research department can operate without influence or interference from other university departments.

Notice that something can be independent without being autonomous, but something that is autonomous is almost always also independent. An independent bookstore might still be subject to local laws and regulations; an autonomous region, however, would have much more complete control over its own affairs. Happy learning!