Some common synonyms of free are autonomous, independent, and sovereign. While all these words mean "not subject to the rule or control of another," free stresses the complete absence of external rule and the full right to make all of one's own decisions.

// you're free to do as you like

In some situations, the words independent and free are roughly equivalent. However, independent implies a standing alone; applied to a state it implies lack of connection with any other having power to interfere with its citizens, laws, or policies.

// the colony's struggle to become independent

While the synonyms autonomous and free are close in meaning, autonomous stresses independence in matters pertaining to self-government.

// in this denomination each congregation is regarded as autonomous