Definition

Adjective: - Free of moral obligation; not indebted or obligated to someone: Describes a state of not being under any moral duty, debt, or sense of obligation to another person or entity. It implies independence from any binding ties of gratitude or duty.

Usage

The word "unbeholden" is used to describe a person, group, or entity that is not bound by any sense of moral or social obligation to another. It emphasizes a position of independence. - It is typically used in formal or literary contexts. - It often describes a principled stance of neutrality or freedom from external influence.

Examples

• The journalist prided herself on being unbeholden to any political party, ensuring her reporting was impartial.
• As an independent candidate, he was unbeholden to the special interests that funded the major parties.
• The foundation remained unbeholden to its wealthy donors, making grants based solely on merit.

Advanced Usage

• "To remain unbeholden": To consciously maintain a state of freedom from obligation.
  • The artist chose to remain unbeholden to any gallery, preferring to sell her work directly online.

Variants and Related Words

• Beholden (adj): Owing thanks or having a duty to someone in return for help or a service. This is the direct antonym.
  • He felt beholden to his mentor for his career success.

Synonyms

• Independent: Free from outside control; not subject to another's authority.
• Unobligated: Not bound by a promise, duty, or legal obligation.
• Ungrateful (in a specific, neutral sense of not owing gratitude, though this word often carries a negative connotation of not showing thanks).

Antonyms

• Beholden: Obligated or indebted.
• Indebted: Owing gratitude for a service or favor.
• Obligated: Bound by a legal, moral, or social requirement.

Adjective

1. free of moral obligation