# depend on sth

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

To need something or someone for support, or to trust that they will help you. It can also mean that a situation will be decided by something else.

For teachers: To require something as a necessary condition (to be contingent on); or, to rely on someone or something for support or as a basis for action.

## Examples

- Babies depend on their parents for everything.
- Our picnic plans depend on the weather, so I hope it stays sunny.
- The entire ecosystem's delicate balance depends on the seasonal migration patterns of this one seemingly insignificant bird species.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I depend of my car to get to work." but "I depend on my car to get to work." — The verb 'depend' always pairs with the preposition 'on' or 'upon', never 'of'.

## Usage notes

- The object is often a person for support, or a condition for plans.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'rely on' (a near-synonym focused on trust) and 'count on' (more informal, for people); 'depend on' is the most neutral and common.

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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.