“A law unto oneself” is a phrase that is commonly used to describe someone who is independent and self-reliant. It is a term that is often used in a positive sense, as it suggests that the person is able to make their own decisions and follow their own path in life. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “a law unto oneself” in more detail.
Definitions
The phrase “a law unto oneself” can be defined as someone who is independent and self-reliant, and who does not feel the need to conform to the norms and expectations of society. It can also refer to someone who is self-governing and does not require external guidance or direction.
Origin
The phrase “a law unto oneself” has its origins in the Bible, specifically in the book of Romans. In this book, the apostle Paul writes that those who do not have the law are a law unto themselves. The phrase has since been adopted into common usage and is now used to describe someone who is independent and self-reliant.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “a law unto oneself” means “a person who is independent and self-reliant, and who does not feel the need to conform to the norms and expectations of society.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “someone who acts independently and without regard for established norms or rules.”
Associations
The phrase “a law unto oneself” is often associated with positive traits such as independence, self-reliance, and creativity. It suggests that the person is able to think for themselves and make their own decisions, rather than being influenced by external factors.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “a law unto oneself” include independent, self-reliant, self-governing, self-directed, and self-sufficient.
Antonyms
Antonyms of “a law unto oneself” include conformist, follower, dependent, and reliant.
The same root words
The phrase “a law unto oneself” does not have any specific root words, but it is related to the concept of autonomy, which means the ability to make one’s own decisions and act independently.
Example Sentences
- She’s always been a law unto herself, never following the crowd or conforming to expectations.
- He’s so independent that he’s practically a law unto himself.
- The artist’s unique style and creativity meant that she was a law unto herself in the art world.
In conclusion, “a law unto oneself” is a phrase that is used to describe someone who is independent, self-reliant, and does not feel the need to conform to societal norms and expectations. It is a term that is often associated with positive traits such as creativity and independence, and can be used to describe people from all walks of life.