actually rely on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "actually rely on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when emphasizing a genuine dependence or trust in something or someone. Example: "In times of crisis, we must actually rely on our team to make the right decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"In some places we have a common market for energy, but we don't have common procedures for generating energy that we can actually rely on," said Mr. Roques.

The New York Times

Google spokesperson Adam Kovacevich points out that there are already alternatives to ITA on the market, adding that Expedia and Travelocity don't actually rely on ITA themselves.

The Guardian - Travel

It was in this context that Nevinson and Steevens contributed to a siege newspaper, the Ladysmith Lyre, which burlesqued the military propaganda machine by disseminating news which, as the masthead promised, you can actually rely on as false".

The Guardian - Books

"This is not merely a fiscal issue, but an issue that jeopardizes the ability of federal and state government to take care of the most vulnerable who actually rely on the program".

The New Yorker

There is mounting evidence, however, that mathematical skills actually rely on our perceptual systems, retrained by experience to implement abstract mathematical relations and transformations.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

As it turns out, the gameplay doesn't actually rely on visually keeping track of the ball at all.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

As one of Murray's younger admirers, the Australian poet and critic John Kinsella, remarks: "Interestingly, he is tone-deaf, and his work actually relies on very specific received rhythms... those of the 'bush ballad', the popular song, the movement of a car or a tractor or a horse galloping..

The Guardian - Books

Kale is a true cold weather vegetable that actually relies on frost to enhance its flavour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Will only those who can show they actually relied on tainted analyst reports be eligible for restitution?

The New York Times

"Woman Power," Dr. Laura Schlessinger's latest dose of nonfree advice, actually relies on the time-saving use of blank space.

The New York Times - Books

Despite its high-concept entry point, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt actually relies on a fairly familiar sitcom trope.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "actually rely on", ensure you are emphasizing a genuine and perhaps surprising dependence. It adds weight to your statement, suggesting the reliance is more significant than initially assumed.

Common error

Avoid using "actually rely on" in every sentence where you mean 'depend on'. Overuse can diminish the impact of the word "actually" and make your writing sound repetitive. Use synonyms like "depend on", "count on", or "trust in" for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "actually rely on" functions as a verb phrase, emphasizing the genuine dependence on something or someone. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in various contexts, from energy generation to mathematical skills.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "actually rely on" is a versatile verb phrase used to emphasize genuine dependence. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals its presence in various fields, primarily News & Media and Science. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is considered grammatically correct. While frequently used, overuse should be avoided to maintain its impact. Ludwig also suggests that alternatives like "truly depend on" or "genuinely count on" can provide variety and precision in writing. Ultimately, "actually rely on" serves as a strong indicator of authentic reliance in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuinely depend on

Emphasizes the authentic and sincere nature of the dependence.

truly count on

Highlights the aspect of trusting and expecting support from someone or something.

sincerely trust in

Focuses on the honest and heartfelt belief in the reliability of something.

honestly bank on

Implies a candid and genuine reliance, similar to placing faith in something.

definitely lean on

Suggests a clear and unambiguous dependence for support or help.

positively swear by

Indicates a strong and affirmative endorsement based on reliable experience.

assuredly place confidence in

Stresses the certain and secure feeling of trusting something.

unquestionably depend upon

Highlights that the dependence is firm and without doubt.

categorically trust to

Emphasizes the absence of doubt in the reliability of someone or something.

factually place reliance on

Highlights that reliance is not based on opinions but is factual.

FAQs

How can I use "actually rely on" in a sentence?

Use "actually rely on" to emphasize that something genuinely depends on someone or something. For example, "The success of the project will "actually rely on" the team's collaboration."

What are some alternatives to "actually rely on"?

You can use alternatives like "truly depend on", "genuinely count on", or "sincerely trust in" depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "actually rely on" or "depend on"?

"Depend on" is generally more neutral. "Actually rely on" adds emphasis and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the desired tone.

What's the difference between "actually rely on" and "heavily rely on"?

"Actually rely on" highlights the genuine nature of the reliance, while "heavily rely on" emphasizes the extent or degree of the reliance.