What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clingy
Example
She is so clingy, always wanting to be by my side. [clingy: adjective]
Example
The child was being clingy and didn't want to let go of his mother's hand. [clingy: adjective]
dependent
Example
He is financially dependent on his parents even though he is an adult. [dependent: adjective]
Example
The elderly woman is dependent on her caregiver for daily tasks. [dependent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dependent is more commonly used than clingy in everyday language. Dependent is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as describing financial or emotional reliance. Clingy, on the other hand, is less common and is mainly used to describe personal relationships.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clingy and dependent?
Both clingy and dependent are generally informal words. However, dependent can also be used in formal contexts, such as discussing financial or legal dependence.
