Which noun describes someone who exhibits great independence in thought and action?

Which noun describes someone who exhibits great independence in thought and action?

• A. Renegade
• B. Nonconformist
• C. Maverick
• D. Rebel

Answer: (C)

Independence in thought and action is best captured by the term Maverick, which describes a person who goes their own way, pursuing unconventional ideas and taking initiative without needing sign-off from others. A maverick is often seen as someone who challenges norms and acts on their own convictions, making it the strongest fit for a noun describing such a person. By contrast, a renegade implies breaking with a group or allegiance (often with a sense of betrayal), a rebel suggests resistance to authority or the established order, and a nonconformist simply doesn’t follow social norms—without necessarily emphasizing the self-directed, independent action that defines a maverick.

Independence in thought and action is best captured by the term Maverick, which describes a person who goes their own way, pursuing unconventional ideas and taking initiative without needing sign-off from others. A maverick is often seen as someone who challenges norms and acts on their own convictions, making it the strongest fit for a noun describing such a person. By contrast, a renegade implies breaking with a group or allegiance (often with a sense of betrayal), a rebel suggests resistance to authority or the established order, and a nonconformist simply doesn’t follow social norms—without necessarily emphasizing the self-directed, independent action that defines a maverick.