are codependent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are codependent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a relationship where two individuals are mutually dependent on each other, often in an unhealthy way. Example: "In their relationship, they are codependent, relying on each other for emotional support to an extreme degree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

4. If you are codependent, read books about codependency, e.g., "The Human Magnet Syndrome" or "Codependent No More". 5. Seek codependency psychotherapy.

Huffington Post

Observed and observer are codependent.

The New York Times - Arts

He wonders if Bush and Bin Laden are codependent.

The Guardian - Arts

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity are codependent epidemics that disproportionately affect ethnic minorities.

Journal of the American College of Surgeons

The painful condition of the United States and China is that they are codependent, through trade and debt, but antagonistic.

The New York Times

Kelly both describes these deep trends interacting, cognifying, flowing, screening, accessing, sharing, filtering, remixing, tracking, and questioning and demonstrates how they overlap and are codependent on one another.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

While Wendy Kaminer's essay "Chances Are You're Codependent Too" (Feb.

The New York Times - Books

See that while there are codependents, virtually anyone can exhibit codependency in certain situations.

WikiHow

Eagle Pass and Piedras Negras are codependents, partners, teammates.

The Washington Post

"I felt it was codependent to have your parents so close," he said.

The New York Times

But wait, because Nigel also has a crew, who he wants with him for the journey because 1) he's codependent, and 2) that's the entire show, dude!

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing relationships, use “are codependent” to accurately convey a pattern of excessive emotional or psychological reliance on each other.

Common error

Avoid using “are codependent” casually; it often implies an unhealthy dynamic. Instead, consider using terms like “are interdependent” or “mutually supportive” if you want to convey a healthier relationship dynamic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are codependent" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of two or more subjects. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in diverse contexts, from interpersonal relationships to abstract concepts, aligning with its adjectival role.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are codependent" effectively describes relationships characterized by mutual reliance. Ludwig, backed by real-world examples and AI analysis, confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent use across various fields. While it's a common expression, be mindful of the often negative connotation of excessive reliance. Alternatives like "mutually dependent" or "interdependent" may be more appropriate in certain contexts. As Ludwig AI pointed out, the phrase is generally correct and usable, but considering the subtle implications and possible alternatives enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

co-dependent

A variation in spelling but maintains the same meaning.

mutually dependent

Emphasizes the reciprocity of the dependence.

interdependent

Highlights a relationship where each party relies on the other, often in a positive or necessary way.

mutually reliant

Similar to mutually dependent, but can imply a more functional or practical reliance.

in a dependent relationship

Highlights that the relationship is based on dependence, however, it does not explicitly specifies that it's mutual.

in a symbiotic relationship

Implies a beneficial mutual dependence, often used in biological contexts but applicable metaphorically.

rely on each other

Focuses on action and dependence.

inextricably linked

Focuses on the tight connection and difficulty of separating the entities.

closely connected

A general term indicating a strong relationship.

bound together

Suggests a strong, often emotional or obligatory, connection.

FAQs

How can I appropriately use "are codependent" in a sentence?

Use "are codependent" to describe relationships where individuals excessively rely on each other for emotional validation or support, often to a detrimental extent. For example, "They "are codependent", struggling to make decisions independently".

What are some alternatives to saying "are codependent"?

Depending on the context, consider using alternatives like "mutually dependent", "interdependent", or "mutually reliant". These options can soften the potentially negative connotation associated with codependency.

What's the difference between "are codependent" and "are interdependent"?

"Are codependent" typically implies an unhealthy, excessive reliance, while "are interdependent" suggests a healthier mutual reliance where individuals maintain their autonomy while supporting each other.

Is it correct to use "are codependent" in a professional context?

Yes, it can be correct, but use it judiciously. In professional settings, "are codependent" might describe how teams or departments rely on each other. However, ensure it's used neutrally without implying any dysfunction, or consider using "are interdependent" as a less loaded term.