# dependent on sb/sth

idiom · CEFR B2

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/dependent-on-sb-sth
Updated: 2026-04-22

## Meaning

to need someone or something to survive, succeed, or work correctly.

## Examples

- My small business is dependent on local customers.
- The success of this project is entirely dependent on whether we receive the funding by next week.
- The island's economy remains heavily dependent on tourism, leaving it vulnerable to any sudden shifts in global travel trends.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.