What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
depend
Example
The success of the project depends on the cooperation of all team members. [depend: verb]
Example
Whether we go to the beach or not depends on the weather. [depends: present tense]
rely
Example
I rely on my alarm clock to wake me up every morning. [rely: verb]
Example
We can rely on John to finish the project on time. [rely: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Depend is more commonly used than rely in everyday language, but both words are widely used and understood.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between depend and rely?
Both depend and rely can be used in formal and informal contexts, but rely may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its positive connotation and stronger level of trust or dependence.
