are counting on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are counting on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express reliance or dependence on someone or something for support or assistance. Example: "We are counting on your expertise to help us complete this project successfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is what 1.3 billion Chinese are counting on, anyway.

The New York Times - Sports

Now they are counting on yet another new dawn.

The Guardian - Sport

Ms. Collins is clearly one Republican they are counting on.

The New York Times

We are counting on them".

Independent

Venture capitalists are counting on it.

The New York Times - Food

(The marketers are counting on that).

The New York Times - Books

Their Republican opponents are counting on him.

The New York Times

And these folks are counting on us.

The New York Times

The Rams are counting on that.

The New York Times - Sports

Restaurateurs, too, are counting on crowds.

The New York Times

Doctors and manufacturers are counting on it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the level of formality required. While "are counting on" is generally suitable for most contexts, "are relying upon" may be more appropriate in formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "are counting on" when a higher degree of certainty is needed. If the outcome is guaranteed, phrases like "are assured of" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are counting on" functions as a verb phrase indicating reliance or dependence. It expresses that someone is expecting support, assistance, or a particular outcome from another person or thing. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are counting on" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to express reliance or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples across a broad range of contexts, especially within news and media. While generally neutral in tone, the phrase can be tailored in formality by choosing synonyms like "are relying upon" for more formal settings. Be mindful of the level of certainty you want to express, as "are counting on" implies a degree of confidence but not necessarily a guarantee. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "are counting on" in your writing to convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are relying upon

This alternative replaces "counting on" with "relying upon", maintaining a similar level of formality and meaning. It emphasizes dependence.

are depending on

Substituting "counting on" with "depending on" offers a direct synonym, stressing the conditionality and need for support.

are banking on

This idiom suggests placing a strong bet or confidence in something, adding a layer of risk or high stakes.

are anticipating

This alternative focuses on expectation rather than reliance. It implies looking forward to something happening.

are expecting

Similar to "are anticipating", this phrase centers on expecting a particular outcome or action, reducing the sense of dependence.

are assured of

Expresses a higher degree of certainty, suggesting confidence in a guaranteed outcome.

are placing their hopes on

This phrase emphasizes the emotional investment and desire for a positive result, adding a layer of vulnerability.

are trusting in

Suggests faith or belief in someone or something, indicating a deeper level of reliance.

are reckoning with

While "are reckoning with" can sometimes be used to denote considering, it often implies dealing with or facing a consequence rather than relying on something.

are taking for granted

This phrase indicates assuming something will happen or be available without sufficient appreciation, a subtle shift from active reliance.

FAQs

What does "are counting on" mean?

The phrase "are counting on" means relying or depending on someone or something to do something or for something to happen. It expresses an expectation or anticipation of support or assistance.

What can I say instead of "are counting on"?

You can use alternatives like "are relying upon", "are depending on", or "are expecting" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I'm counting on you"?

Yes, "I'm counting on you" is a perfectly correct and common way to express that you are relying on someone to fulfill a responsibility or expectation.

How does "are counting on" differ from "are hoping for"?

"Are counting on" suggests a stronger degree of reliance and expectation than "are hoping for". While "are hoping for" implies a wish or desire, "are counting on" indicates a belief that something will actually occur or that someone will take action.