1.
autonomy, self-regulation, self-discipline
The ability to govern or control oneself according to one's own principles, without external control. Also used in technical contexts for autonomous systems or the autonomic nervous system.
子どもの自律心を育てたい。
I want to nurture my child's sense of self-discipline.
ストレスで自律神経が乱れている。
Stress is disrupting my autonomic nervous system.
社員が自律して働ける環境を整えることが大切だ。
It is important to create an environment where employees can work autonomously.
USAGE:
Distinguish from the homophone 自立 (independence, self-reliance): 自律 emphasizes internal self-governance and discipline (律 = law/regulation), while 自立 emphasizes standing on one's own feet financially or physically (立 = stand).
自律神経 (autonomic nervous system) is a very common compound — 自律神経失調症 (autonomic nervous system disorder) is frequently discussed in health contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 自律神経: autonomic nervous system
- 自律心: self-discipline, autonomy
- 自律した学習: self-directed learning
- 自律型ロボット: autonomous robot