dependence

[dɪˈpɛndəns]

dependence Definition

• 1. the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else
• 2. a need for a particular substance in order to function normally

Using dependence: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "dependence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Her dependence on her parents was evident when she couldn't make any decisions without consulting them.

• Example

  The country's economy has a heavy dependence on oil exports.

• Example

  He developed a dependence on painkillers after his surgery.

• Example

  The child's dependence on their caregiver is crucial for their development.

dependence Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for dependence

• reliance
• trust
• addiction
• habituation
• need

Antonyms for dependence

• independence
• self-reliance

Idioms Using dependence

• dependence breeds subservience

  if you rely too much on someone or something, you will become too obedient and submissive to them

  Example

  She realized that her dependence on her partner had led to her becoming subservient to him.

• dependence on the kindness of strangers

  relying on the help of people who are unknown to you

  Example

  After losing her job, she had to depend on the kindness of strangers to get by.

• dependence on fate

  relying on luck or chance to determine the outcome of a situation

  Example

  He had a strong dependence on fate and believed that everything happened for a reason.

Phrases with dependence

• dependence on alcohol/drugs

  an addiction to alcohol or drugs that causes a person to rely on them in order to function normally

  Example

  His dependence on alcohol was affecting his work and personal life.

• dependence on technology

  a reliance on technology to perform daily tasks or activities

  Example

  The younger generation's dependence on technology is increasing rapidly.

• dependence on foreign aid

  a reliance on financial or other assistance from other countries

  Example

  The country's dependence on foreign aid has been a topic of debate for years.

Origins of dependence

from Old French 'dependance', from Latin 'dependentia', from 'dependere' meaning 'to hang from'

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Summary: dependence in Brief

The term 'dependence' [dɪˈpɛndəns] refers to the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else. It can also refer to a need for a particular substance in order to function normally. Examples include a child's dependence on their caregiver, a country's dependence on oil exports, and a person's dependence on painkillers. Phrases like 'dependence on technology' and idioms like 'dependence breeds subservience' further illustrate the concept.