Reliance
/rɪˈlaɪəns/
Definitions
The state of being dependent on or trusting someone or something.
/rɪˈlaɪəns/
Dependence on or trust in someone or something.
His emotional reliance on her was unhealthy.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're really good at one video game and you *rely* on your skills to win. That's like reliance – you depend on something, like your skills, to get you what you want.
👶 For kids: It means when you need something or someone to help you or keep you safe, like how a puppy *relies* on its mom.
More Examples
The city's economic reliance on tourism made it vulnerable to external shocks.
They placed too much reliance on outdated technology.
How It's Used
"The company's reliance on a single supplier proved to be a risk during the supply chain disruptions."
"The government's reliance on foreign aid has been a point of contention for years."
"His reliance on his friends' support was crucial during his illness."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
self-reliance
The ability to rely on oneself to achieve goals.
"Self-reliance is a key trait for entrepreneurs."
have/place reliance on
To depend on someone or something.
"The company has placed strong reliance on renewable energy."
From Middle English reliaunce, from Old French reliance (trust, dependence), from the verb relier (to rely).
The word 'reliance' gained prominence in the 17th century, reflecting the increasing importance of trust and dependence in various aspects of life.
Memory tip
Think of RE-LIANCE as RElying on someone or something for support.
Word Origin
"trust, dependence"