To be able to function independently of other people or things; to have value independent of other related entities. Now that you're 18, you're expected to stand on your own and make good choices without your parents telling you what to do.I think the honors program is now capable of standing on its own, as it drew more applications than several other programs on campus.I think the sequel really stands on its own as a film—you don't need to see the first movie to appreciate it.