WordGarden.iodependence
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪpˈɛndəns/
US
- /dɪˈpɛndəns/
Meanings
Noun
the state of relying on someone or something for support, help, or continued functioning
the state of being determined by or contingent on something else
a condition of needing alcohol, a drug, or another substance to function or avoid withdrawal
More meaningsFewer meanings
a formal relationship in which one variable, event, or quantity is determined or influenced by another
Beyond the definition
Dependence isn't always a bad thing! Babies are completely dependent on their parents for food and care—that's natural. But as we grow, developing healthy independence becomes important. However, even adults experience dependence in certain areas. You might be dependent on your car to get to work or dependent on coffee to wake up in the morning. Sometimes, dependence can become unhealthy, such as when someone becomes overly reliant on another person for their happiness. Think of it like a vine: it depends on a sturdy structure for the support it needs to grow.
Dependence describes the state of relying on someone or something for support, help, or basic needs. It's woven into the fabric of life; from the moment we are born, we are dependent on others. A young child is utterly dependent on caregivers for survival—food, shelter, love, and protection. This kind of dependence is both essential and healthy.
However, dependence can take many forms. We might be financially dependent on a job to earn income or emotionally dependent on friends and family for support. Sometimes, it is purely practical: you are dependent on electricity to power your home or the internet to stay connected.
The word carries different connotations depending on the context. A healthy level of interdependence—where people rely on each other in a balanced way—is crucial for strong relationships. Conversely, excessive dependence can be problematic. Someone with an addiction might have a dangerous dependence on a substance, or a person might become overly dependent on another for validation and self-worth.
You will also hear "dependence" used in scientific contexts, like "ecosystem dependence," where different species rely on each other for survival, or in economics, describing how one country's economy is dependent on another's resources or trade policies.
So, while reliance is a natural part of life, understanding the type and degree of dependence—whether it's healthy support or an unhealthy crutch—is key to navigating relationships and building a fulfilling life.
Examples
- 1
Family finances
Many students want to avoid financial dependence on their families.
- 2
Energy imports
The country is trying to reduce its dependence on imported oil.
- 3
Small business
Too much dependence on one client can be risky for a small business.
- 4
Emotional approval
She worried that her son was developing an unhealthy dependence on her approval.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Drug use
Some painkillers can lead to physical dependence if they are used for a long time.
- Domainphysical dependence
when your body starts to need a drug
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- overreliance
- addiction
Contrast
- independence
- self-sufficiency
Used with (collocations)
- dependence on
- drug dependence
- economic dependence
- dependence on others
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- dependencenoun
Forms
- dependencespluralnoun