# dependence

/dɪˈpɛndəns/ (US) · /dɪpˈɛndəns/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dependence
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. relying on others

noun · CEFR B2

a situation where you need help or support from someone or something else to succeed or survive.

For teachers: the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else for support or survival.

- The country is trying to reduce its dependence on imported oil by using solar power.
- The region's heavy dependence on a single industry made it particularly vulnerable to the sudden shifts in the global market.

Usage: Often followed by the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.

### 2. addiction

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a physical or mental need for a drug or a specific substance.

For teachers: a physiological or psychological habituation to a substance; a state where cessation causes withdrawal symptoms.

- He sought medical help to overcome his dependence on painkillers after the accident.
- Clinical researchers are investigating how genetic factors influence the speed at which a physical dependence on nicotine develops in teenagers.

Usage: Commonly used in medical and psychological contexts to distinguish from the broader social meaning of 'addiction'.

Teaching tip: In modern medical English, 'dependence' is often preferred over 'addiction' because it sounds more objective and less judgmental.

## Examples

- The country is trying to reduce its dependence on oil.
- Many elderly people value their autonomy and fear that a growing dependence on others will limit their freedom.
- The regional economy's heavy dependence on a single manufacturing plant left the community vulnerable to sudden shifts in global market demand.

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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.