# depend on sb/sth for sth

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/depend-on-sb-sth-for-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

To need someone or something for support, money, or help. You can also depend on someone to do something you expect them to do.

For teachers: To rely on a person or thing for necessary support, aid, or resources; to be contingent upon a particular factor or condition.

## Examples

- Babies depend on their parents for everything.
- The small town's economy depends on the local factory for jobs and growth.
- The success of the entire mission would depend on the pilot's expertise for navigating the asteroid field safely.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I depend of my car to get to work." but "I depend on my car to get to work." — The correct preposition after 'depend' is 'on' (or the more formal 'upon').

## Usage notes

- Often follows the pattern 'depend on [someone/something] for [a resource or outcome]'.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'rely on' (a very close synonym) and 'count on' (which adds a stronger sense of trust and expectation).

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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.