# interdependence

/ˌɪntɝdəˈpɛndəns/ (US) · /ˌɪntədɪpˈɛndəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/interdependence
Updated: 2026-06-22

## Definition

the state of two or more people or things needing each other to survive or succeed. It describes a situation where one person's actions directly affect another.

For teachers: the state of being mutually dependent; a relationship in which the needs or actions of one party are closely tied to those of another. Often used in ecological, economic, or social contexts to describe complex systems.

## Examples

- The success of the project depends on the interdependence of the team members.
- Modern global trade relies on the interdependence of different countries to provide raw materials and finished goods.
- The ecosystem's health is maintained through a delicate interdependence between predator and prey populations, where the removal of one species can lead to the collapse of the entire food web.

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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.