The phrase "answer to no man" means to be independent and not have to justify one's actions to anyone. There are several synonyms to this phrase that express the same idea, such as "accountable to oneself," "self-governing," "self-ruling," "autonomous," "self-sufficient," "unrestricted," and "unconstrained." These words represent a strong sense of personal freedom and responsibility. They suggest that one is capable of making their own decisions and living by their own rules, without needing to please or impress anyone else. Being confident in oneself and having the ability to answer to oneself alone is a powerful and admirable quality.