This is the 4585th most frequent German word.
selbstständig
Independent; self-employed.
In this sentence, 'selbstständig' refers to being self-employed, indicating an independent professional activity.
Er ist seit fünf Jahren selbstständig und betreibt eine kleine Firma.
He has been self-employed for five years and runs a small company.
Here, 'selbstständig' is used to describe independence in action, highlighting the ability to perform tasks on one's own.
Kinder sollten lernen, selbstständig ihre Aufgaben zu erledigen.
Children should learn to complete their tasks independently.
In this example, 'selbstständig' signifies autonomy in making decisions, free from external control or influence.