self-determined individual

[/self dɪˈtɜːrmɪnd ˈɪndɪvɪdʒuəl/]
nounpl: self-determined individuals
indivíduo autodeterminado
1. A person who makes their own choices and decisions based on their own values, beliefs, and desires rather than being controlled or influenced by external forces
As a self-determined individual, she chose to pursue her passion for art despite her family's expectations.
Como uma indivídua autodeterminada, ela escolheu seguir sua paixão pela arte apesar das expectativas de sua família.
2. A person who exercises autonomy and agency in directing their own life path and personal development
The self-determined individual takes responsibility for their own success and failure.
O indivíduo autodeterminado assume responsabilidade por seu próprio sucesso e fracasso.
In Brazilian culture, being a self-determined individual is highly valued, particularly in contexts of social mobility and entrepreneurship. In American culture, especially in NYC, this concept is deeply embedded in the values of individualism and the 'self-made' narrative. The term is frequently used in psychology, education, and organizational development discussions in both cultures.
NYC Slang
self-made person, independent operator, or 'their own boss'
Synonyms / Sinônimos
autonomous personindependent individualself-reliant personfree agentperson with agency
Antonyms / Antônimos
dependent individualcontrolled personmanipulated personperson without agency

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
indivíduo autodeterminado / pessoa autodeterminada
Standard formal usage in academic and professional contexts
Rio de Janeiro
cara/mina independente
More colloquial, informal usage
São Paulo
indivíduo com autonomia
Common in business and organizational contexts
Portugal
indivíduo auto-determinado / pessoa com autodeterminação
Similar to Brazilian Portuguese but with hyphenation preference

Related Words

autonomyself-determinationagencyindependencepersonal freedomself-governance

Related Idioms & Phrases

master of one's own destiny
captain of one's soul
call the shots
march to the beat of one's own drum
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