1
Lack causal dependence
Remain unchanged regardless of another factor.
Example
The reaction rate appears to be independent of light levels.
be independent of
/bi ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt əv/ · bee in-di-PEN-duhnt uvrelationship phrase
Not depend on, be determined by, or be controlled by something.
Use be independent of to signal this exact relationship between ideas: not depend on, be determined by, or be controlled by something.
What be independent of Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Maintain autonomy
Operate without control from another body.
Example
The review panel must be independent of the agency.
3
Separate variables
Show that two measured factors have no systematic dependence.
Example
Preference was independent of age in this sample.
Use be independent of Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The reaction rate appears to be independent of light levels.
The review panel must be independent of the agency.
Preference was independent of age in this sample.
Precision Matters
Be independent of overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
be independent of
vs.Signals not depend on, be determined by, or be controlled by something.
be contingent on
Means depend on a condition that must be met.
be independent of
vs.Signals not depend on, be determined by, or be controlled by something.
be correlated with
Means vary in a systematic relationship with another measured variable.
be independent of
vs.Signals not depend on, be determined by, or be controlled by something.
autonomous
Means self-governing or free from external control.
be independent of
vs.Signals not depend on, be determined by, or be controlled by something.
be associated with
Means be connected with something, without necessarily being caused by it.
Test be independent of in Context
The backup cannot depend on the system whose failure it addresses.
1
The backup power system must ___ the main electrical grid so that it still works during a grid failure.