Dependence: meaning, definitions and examples
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dependence
[dɪˈpɛndəns ]
Definitions
on others
The state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dependence |
Use to describe a state where someone or something is heavily or entirely reliant on another person or thing, often suggesting a lack of independence or self-sufficiency. This term can have a negative connotation, especially in contexts related to substance dependence.
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Examples of usage
- Children often have a sense of dependence on their parents for support and guidance.
- The country's economy has a heavy dependence on oil exports.
on substances
The state of being addicted to a particular substance, such as drugs or alcohol.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dependence |
Commonly used in formal contexts to describe a state of relying on something or someone for support, often used in medical or psychological fields when referring to a non-substance-related reliance.
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| addiction |
Used to describe a compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance or activity, often has a negative connotation and is associated with physical or psychological harm.
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| habit |
Refers to a regular practice or routine that is hard to give up, often used in neutral or slightly positive contexts.
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| craving |
Refers to a strong desire or urge for something, usually in the context of food, drink, or experiences; less formal and less severe than addiction.
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Examples of usage
- His dependence on alcohol has caused many problems in his personal and professional life.
- She sought help to overcome her dependence on prescription painkillers.
on technology
The reliance on technological devices or systems for everyday activities.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dependence |
Used when referring to a state of needing something or someone for support, often implying a lack of autonomy. Can carry a negative connotation, especially in contexts such as substance dependence.
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| reliance |
Used to describe the act of depending on something or someone for support or help. Often neutral and has a broader application compared to dependence.
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| reliability |
Used to describe the quality of being trustworthy and performing consistently well. Often used in technical contexts or when discussing a person's consistency.
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| trust |
Used to describe a firm belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone or something. Carries a positive connotation and is often used in interpersonal relationships.
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Examples of usage
- The younger generation's dependence on smartphones is evident in their constant use.
- The company's dependence on outdated software hindered its progress.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'dependere', meaning 'to hang down', reflecting the idea of relying on something.
- It first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century, capturing the notion of reliance.
- The prefix 'de-' typically means 'from' or 'of', adding to the sense of deriving support from something.
Psychology
- Dependence can manifest in relationships, where one person may lean heavily on another for emotional support.
- Psychologists distinguish between healthy dependence, where support enhances well-being, and unhealthy dependence, which can inhibit personal growth.
- The concept of attachment theory shows how early relationships with caregivers influence levels of dependence in adulthood.
Sociology
- In societies, dependence on social structures such as family, government, or institutions can shape cultural norms.
- Economic dependence is common in relationships where one partner may rely entirely on the other financially, influencing power dynamics.
- Different cultures have varying levels of accepted dependence, with some valuing independence more than community reliance.
Medicine
- Dependence is a key concept when discussing addiction; individuals may become dependent on substances for survival or ease.
- Pharmacological dependence occurs when the body adapts to a drug, requiring it to function normally.
- Withdrawal symptoms can occur when releasing dependence on a substance, highlighting the need for holistic treatment approaches.
Literature
- Authors often explore the theme of dependence in characters, showing how their relationships shape their identities.
- Notably, plays and novels often contain allegories of dependence, illustrating struggles between autonomy and reliance.
- Dependence is used as a narrative device to create tension, often leading to character development and conflict resolution.
Translations
Translations of the word "dependence" in other languages:
🇵🇹 dependência
🇮🇳 निर्भरता
🇩🇪 Abhängigkeit
🇮🇩 ketergantungan
🇺🇦 залежність
🇵🇱 zależność
🇯🇵 依存
🇫🇷 dépendance
🇪🇸 dependencia
🇹🇷 bağımlılık
🇰🇷 의존
🇸🇦 اعتماد
🇨🇿 závislost
🇸🇰 závislosť
🇨🇳 依赖
🇸🇮 odvisnost
🇮🇸 háð
🇰🇿 тәуелділік
🇬🇪 დამოკიდებულება
🇦🇿 asılılıq
🇲🇽 dependencia