reliance
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the state of needing someone or something to help you or to work correctly.
the condition of being dependent on someone or something for support, survival, or functioning.
Simple“The country's reliance on imported oil makes it vulnerable to price changes.”
In context“The company's heavy reliance on a single supplier proved disastrous when the factory overseas was forced to close unexpectedly.”
UsageUsually followed by the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.
PitfallHis reliance for his parents is too high. His reliance on his parents is too high.The noun reliance is almost always followed by the preposition 'on'.
SynonymsAntonymsindependenceself sufficiency - 02 C1 Advanced
the act of trusting or having confidence in someone or something.
the act of placing trust or confidence in a person, system, or promise.
Simple“You can place total reliance on his word; he never breaks a promise.”
In context“The legal system requires a high degree of public reliance on the impartiality of the judiciary to function effectively.”
UsageOften used with the verbs 'place' or 'put'.
Synonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
a person or thing that you can depend on for help.
a person or thing that serves as a ground of trust or a source of support.
Simple“For many years, his older brother was his main reliance in times of trouble.”
In context“In the absence of a formal pension, the small family farm remained their sole reliance for their later years.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is rare in modern speech; learners will mostly encounter it in 19th-century literature.
Usage reliance on
“They work best as "a first- and last-mile solution" in urban areas, to reduce reliance on cars for short trips.”
“But she is clear enough about Trump’s reliance on complaisant big media.”