depend - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
depend Word Meanings
- to rely on something
- to be contingent upon
- to be influenced by
depend Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
depend Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈpɛnd/
US
/dɪˈpɛnd/
depend Word Etymology
de- = down/from + pend = hang. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a pendulum hanging down, swaying back and forth, illustrating how something can be dependent or influenced by external factors.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my hand on a creaking railing and let my weight settle. I shift my stance, tighten my grip, and adjust my frame as the floor sways. A small decision forms: I realize I depend on that thin bar to hold me up, so I breathe, steady myself, and push forward. In real life, that tiny moment repeats whenever I lean on someone or something to carry me through.
Real Context
Think of depend as a hinge that connects actions or outcomes to something outside your control. In English you depend on people for help, information, or support, and you depend on conditions for decisions—for example, a plan that depends on the weather. We say it depends on or upon something, and we often use it with on after a noun or pronoun. The word can also describe influence, as in strategies that depend on customer reactions. Learners often confuse depend with rely; remember that depend emphasizes contingency and external factors, while rely stresses trust or reliance on a person.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: depend is about contingency; use on/upon for the factor; avoid mixing with rely; it depends on; noun + depends on; preposition matters.
Common Misconceptions
- Depend and rely are interchangeable in all contexts.
- You can say depend of someone; it should be depend on someone.
- It depends on weather, but also on people; mix with most verbs.
- Using depend without a preposition after the object is wrong.
- Confusing 'depend' with 'depend on' in complex clauses.
Thinking Differences
Explains how English frames dependence as a link to external factors; learners should note the common preposition 'on' and the nuance between contingency vs reliance on a person.
Learning Tips
- Practice with at least 6 sentences using depend on various nouns.
- Compare depend with rely to see nuance.
- Use it to express contingency in plans.
- Notice how it pairs with weather, conditions, or people.
- Create flashcards for common collocations with on/upon.
- Read/watch examples in authentic contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the best definition of the word 'depend'?
A.To rely on someone or something for support or help
B.To be uncertain about a choice
C.To delay an action until later
D.To control or dictate someone’s behavior
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'depend' correctly?
A.Children often depend on their parents for food and shelter.
B.She will depend the table with a tablecloth before dinner.
C.The artist likes to depend his paintings with bright colors.
D.If it rains, we'll depend the picnic to Sunday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'depend'?
A.ignore
B.decorate
C.rely on
D.measure
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the best opposite (antonym) of 'depend'?
A.trust
B.independent
C.adhere
D.support
Step 5: Mastery
Choose the real-life prompt that best invites you to use the word aloud.
A.Explain the process of making a homemade pizza.
B.Describe how to replace a flat tire step by step.
C.Can you give an example of a situation where someone's plans rely on the weather?
D.Tell a story about a childhood pet and what made it special.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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