Count on: meaning, definitions and examples

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count on

 

[ kaʊnt ɒn ]

Phrasal verb
Context #1 | Phrasal verb

trust or rely on

To believe that someone will do what they say they will do; to trust in someone's abilities or character.

Synonyms

depend on, have faith in, rely on, trust in.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
count on

Used when you want to express a basic level of trust in someone or something. Usually implies that you are sure they will not let you down.

  • You can count on me to help you with your homework.
  • We can count on the weather being good for our picnic.
rely on

Used to indicate trust in someone's or something's capability or honesty. This phrase implies consistent and dependable support.

  • He relies on his car to get to work every day.
  • We rely on good weather to make our event a success.
depend on

Used to show reliance on someone or something for support, help, or supply. It’s often more formal and can imply a necessity.

  • She depends on her family for emotional support.
  • The success of the project depends on everyone doing their part.
trust in

Similar to 'have faith in' but can be slightly more formal. Often used in contexts related to personal integrity and moral values.

  • I trust in her judgment.
  • People trust in the honesty of their leaders.
have faith in

This phrase is used to show a deeper, more enduring belief in someone or something. It often suggests a greater level of trust and a positive expectation.

  • I have faith in his ability to succeed.
  • You must have faith in the system for it to work effectively.

Examples of usage

  • I know I can count on you to help me with this project.
  • You can count on me to be there for you when you need support.
Context #2 | Phrasal verb

expect

To expect or anticipate something to happen.

Synonyms

anticipate, bank on, expect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
count on

Used when you trust someone or something to do something or to be dependable.

  • You can count on her to deliver the project on time
  • I'm counting on you to help with the event
expect

Used when you believe something is likely to happen or you assume something will occur in the future.

  • I expect the train to arrive on time
  • She expects a lot from her team
anticipate

Used when you are predicting or waiting for something to happen, often with excitement or anxiety.

  • We anticipate a lot of interest in the new product
  • They anticipated the arrival of the guests with great excitement
bank on

Informal usage similar to 'count on', often implying reliance or a strong level of certainty.

  • You can bank on him to fix the issue
  • I'm banking on good weather for the picnic

Examples of usage

  • I'm counting on receiving that promotion next month.
  • Don't count on the weather being good for the picnic.

Translations

Translations of the word "count on" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contar com

🇮🇳 भरोसा करना

🇩🇪 sich verlassen auf

🇮🇩 mengandalkan

🇺🇦 покладатися на

🇵🇱 liczyć na

🇯🇵 頼りにする

🇫🇷 compter sur

🇪🇸 contar con

🇹🇷 güvenmek

🇰🇷 의지하다

🇸🇦 يعتمد على

🇨🇿 spoléhat se na

🇸🇰 spoliehať sa na

🇨🇳 依靠

🇸🇮 računati na

🇮🇸 reiða sig á

🇰🇿 сенім арту

🇬🇪 დამოკიდებული

🇦🇿 etibar etmək

🇲🇽 contar con

Etymology

The phrase 'count on' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the Middle English word 'counten' meaning 'to take into account'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage to indicate trust, reliance, or expectation.