independence
pl. uncountable
Commonality score: 1 (Very Common)
Translations
Arabic: الاستقلال
Chinese (Mandarin): 独立 (dúlì)
French: indépendance
German: Unabhängigkeit
Hindi: स्वतंत्रता (svatantrata)
Japanese: 独立 (dokuritsu)
Korean: 독립 (dongnip)
Polish: niezależność
Portuguese: independência
Russian: независимость (nezavisimost')
Spanish: independencia
Thai: ความเป็นอิสระ (khwaam bpen ìtsarà)
Turkish: bağımsızlık
Vietnamese: sự độc lập
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Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy, translations could be misleading. Check with your teacher if you are unsure.
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Noun type
Abstract Noun: "Independence" is an abstract noun because it refers to the state of being self-sufficient or free from external control rather than a tangible object.
It is uncountable, as it represents a general concept rather than discrete units.
The word originates from the Latin "independens," which means "not relying on others," derived from "in-" (not) and "dependere" (to hang down, to be dependent on).
Definition/s
- The state of being free from outside control or influence.
- The ability to make decisions and act without needing help or permission.
- The condition of a country or region that is self-governing and not under foreign rule.
Examples
- Financial independence allows people to make their own life choices.
- Achieving emotional independence is an important part of personal growth.
- Moving to a new city gave him a sense of independence.
- Learning to cook is an essential skill for independence in adulthood.
- Many countries celebrate their independence with national holidays.
- The struggle for independence was long and difficult.
What are Openers?
- Openers are conversation starters you will use to participate in a discussion. They come in three forms:
1. Open Questions
- Ask an open question and understand your conversation partners’s views.
- Make sure to ask follow ups, and remember: this is a conversation, not an interview!
2. Stories
- Tell a personal story. Something that has happened to you, or somebody you know.
- Or tell us about something that you have done or seen.
- Your conversation partners must then follow up with you or reciprocate with their own stories.
3. Opinions
- Share an opinion about something that the content has inspired.
- Respectfully identify any agreement or disagreement there is in the room.
What are Openers?
- Openers are conversation starters you will use to participate in a discussion. They come in three forms:
1. Open Questions
- Ask an open question and understand your conversation partners’s views.
- Make sure to ask follow ups, and remember: this is a conversation, not an interview!
2. Stories
- Tell a personal story. Something that has happened to you, or somebody you know.
- Or tell us about something that you have done or seen.
- Your conversation partners must then follow up with you or reciprocate with their own stories.
3. Opinions
- Share an opinion about something that the content has inspired.
- Respectfully identify any agreement or disagreement there is in the room.
The Skinny
You’ve been asked to brief a senior executive (the “boss”) on a key issue from a recent business news event. This person is busy and relies on you to give them insight, not headlines.
You have 60–90 seconds to deliver a concise, high-value update tailored to their concerns and communication preferences.
1. Read the boss profile carefully.
- Who are they?
- What do they care about?
- What do they not want to hear?
2. Stick to their focus.
- What part of the story matters most to them?
- Don’t explain everything—prioritise.
3. Use business English.
- Be clear, precise, and professional.
- Avoid informal or emotional language.
Two Papal Styles: Clerical vs. Pastoral
Not all popes lead the same way. Some focus more on rules and tradition, while others focus on care and connection. These two styles are often called clerical and pastoral.
Understanding the difference can help us see why Pope Francis felt so different from past leaders—and why some people loved his style while others disagreed with it.
Understanding the difference can help us see why Pope Francis felt so different from past leaders—and why some people loved his style while others disagreed with it.
🟣 Clerical Style
- Focuses on rules, tradition, and Church authority
- Speaks with clear, firm direction
- Keeps strong boundaries between Church leaders and members.
Example: A clerical pope might defend strict Church teachings on family or sacraments.
🟢 Pastoral Style
- Focuses on compassion, listening, and inclusion
- Tries to meet people where they are.
- Emphasises mercy over judgment.
Example: A pastoral pope might welcome divorced people or support migrants and the poor.
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