I depend on

USAGE SUMMARY

"I depend on" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to express that someone relies on something or someone to fulfill a need or purpose. Example: "I depend on my morning cup of coffee to wake me up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The individual contributions ε i depend on the position i and on the nucleotide a i at that position.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

For example, one thing I depend on is the sweet potato.

The Guardian

(Like many prosopagnosics, I avoid greeting people by name, lest I use the wrong one, and I depend on others to save me from egregious social blunders).

The New Yorker

I depend on them".

The New York Times

I depend on myself".

The New York Times

I depend on you.

The Guardian

So I depend on crisps and chocolates.

Independent

I depend on my friend for everything.

The Guardian - Opinion

I depend on it for survival.

The New York Times

"Slippage is something I believe in, something I depend on".

The New Yorker

I depend on this car for supporting my family".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I depend on", ensure the object of your dependence is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid generic statements like "I depend on things". Specify what you depend on and why for better clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I depend on" functions as a verb phrase expressing reliance or dependence. According to Ludwig AI, it is a commonly used phrase. The subject, "I", indicates the person who is relying on something or someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I depend on" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate reliance on something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it serves the purpose of conveying support, assistance, or sustenance. While generally neutral in register, the specific context dictates the overall tone. For alternative expressions, consider using "I rely on", "I count on", or "I lean on".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I rely on

Direct synonym, emphasizing consistent trust and reliance.

I count on

Highlights anticipation and confidence in someone or something.

I lean on

Suggests seeking support, whether emotional or practical.

I'm banking on

Implies placing a significant level of trust or expectation.

I'm pinning my hopes on

Indicates a strong desire for a specific outcome.

I'm contingent on

Specifies that something is conditional or dependent on another factor.

I require

Highlights necessity and essential conditions.

I'm sustained by

Emphasizes ongoing support and maintenance.

I am secured by

Highlights the dependence on something that provides protection or safety.

I'm upheld by

Similar to 'sustained by' but highlights maintenance in an abstract or moral sense.

FAQs

How can I use "I depend on" in a sentence?

Use "I depend on" to express reliance on something or someone. For example, "I depend on my colleagues for support" or "I depend on public transportation to get around".

What are some alternatives to "I depend on"?

You can use alternatives like "I rely on", "I count on", or "I lean on" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "I am depending on"?

Yes, "I am depending on" is grammatically correct, but it suggests a more temporary or ongoing reliance compared to the simple present "I depend on", which implies a more general or habitual reliance. Choose the tense that best fits the context.

What's the difference between "I depend on" and "I am dependent on"?

"I depend on" is a verb phrase that expresses active reliance, while "I am dependent on" uses an adjective, "dependent", and describes a state of being. The first focuses on the action of relying, while the second describes a condition of needing something or someone.