What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
statehood
Example
Hawaii achieved statehood in 1959. [statehood: noun]
Example
The movement for statehood in Catalonia has gained momentum in recent years. [statehood: noun]
Example
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States but does not have full statehood. [statehood: noun]
autonomy
Example
The Basque region of Spain has been granted a high degree of autonomy. [autonomy: noun]
Example
The university has been given autonomy to set its own curriculum and policies. [autonomy: noun]
Example
The indigenous tribe fought for autonomy over their ancestral lands. [autonomy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Statehood is less common than autonomy in everyday language, as it is a more specific and formal term related to international law and politics. Autonomy is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts related to self-rule and independence.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between statehood and autonomy?
Statehood is a more formal term that is typically used in legal and political contexts, while autonomy can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.
