self-directed

Meanings

1. 1adjectivebefore a noun

   Controlled or managed by the person doing the activity, without being told what to do by others.

   Grammar: Usually comes before a noun: 'self-directed learning'. It can also follow a linking verb: 'The project was self-directed.'

   Patterns

   • self-directed learning
   • self-directed study
   • be self-directed

   The course encourages self-directed learning, so students choose their own topics.

   She is very self-directed and does not need constant supervision.

   Self-directed study requires good time management.

2. 2adjectivebefore a noun

   Aimed at improving yourself or achieving your own goals.

   Grammar: Often used in phrases like 'self-directed goals' or 'self-directed change'.

   Patterns

   • self-directed goals
   • self-directed change

   He set self-directed goals to learn coding in his spare time.

   The workshop focuses on self-directed change rather than advice from experts.

Common combinations

self-directed learning

Self-directed learning works well for motivated adults.

self-directed study

She completed the self-directed study over six months.

highly self-directed

The best employees are highly self-directed.

self-directed goals

Write down your self-directed goals for the year.

Synonyms and how they differ

independent

Focuses on not needing help; self-directed emphasizes choosing your own direction.

autonomous

More formal and often used for groups or systems; self-directed is common for individuals.

Opposites

Word family

self-direction noun

The ability to manage your own activities.

direct verb

To control or manage something.

directed adjective

Controlled or guided by someone.

Commonly confused: self-directed or self-directing?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “self-directed”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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