Unbeholden - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

To be unbeholden means not owing any gratitude or obligation to anyone. It's like being completely independent and free from any sense of indebtedness. You might be unbeholden to a company if you funded your own business, or unbeholden to a political party if you make decisions based on your own values. This state of freedom can be empowering, but it can also mean you lack a support network. However, it is better to be true to yourself than to be indebted to others.

Etymology

The word 'unbeholden' is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' (meaning 'not') to 'beholden'. As mentioned earlier, 'beholden' comes from 'behold', meaning to hold or bind. So, 'unbeholden' literally means 'not held' or 'not bound'. This signifies freedom from obligations and gratitude.

Related Words

Examples

• "She made sure to stay unbeholden to any political party so she could speak her mind freely."
• "The artist wanted to remain unbeholden to commercial interests, so he could pursue his own vision."
• "He prided himself on being unbeholden to anyone, making his own decisions."
• "The small business owner was unbeholden to investors, giving her complete control."

Encouragement

Striving for independence can be a great goal! Being unbeholden allows you to make choices based on your own values and beliefs. Follow your own path! 🌟

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