co-dependent

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'co-dependent' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an adjective used to describe a relationship between two people in which each individual relies on the other for emotional or psychological support in an unhealthy way. For example, "The co-dependent relationship between the couple created an atmosphere of toxicity and unhappiness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Co-dependent, exactly.

The Guardian - Film

He was so co-dependent.

The New York Times

We're not a co-dependent facility.

The New York Times

Passionately co-dependent relationships predictably ran aground.

The New Yorker

"I said, 'You're a little co-dependent,"' his mother said.

The New York Times

The feeling is mutual -- and co-dependent.

The New York Times

What's stopping it, in many cases, is its co-dependent relationship with drivers.

The New York Times

"They are a co-dependent couple and want the security of living in a small community.

The Guardian

Summer Before the Dark intimately explores Zweig and Roth's co-dependent friendship.

The Guardian - Books

A wit, Mr. Williams, joked that his songs promoted "co-dependent" relationships.

The New York Times - Arts

Even in a bull market, Bill was a draining co-dependent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing relationships, be specific about the behaviors that indicate "co-dependent" tendencies, rather than simply labeling the relationship as such.

Common error

Avoid using "co-dependent" when you actually mean interdependence – a healthy state of mutual reliance where both individuals maintain their autonomy.

Linguistic Context

The term "co-dependent" functions primarily as an adjective describing relationships or individuals characterized by excessive emotional or psychological reliance on others. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's considered grammatically correct for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "co-dependent" is a well-established adjective used to describe unhealthy relationship dynamics marked by excessive emotional reliance, confirmed by Ludwig AI as grammatically sound. It is frequently used in news and media contexts, along with discussions in science and formal writing. While describing relationships, it's important to be specific. Be cautious not to confuse "co-dependent" with interdependence, where both parties maintain healthy autonomy. Understanding such nuances ensures accurate and responsible language use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

codependency

The noun form of the concept, referring to the pattern of behavior.

mutually dependent

Focuses on the simple fact of dependence, without necessarily implying negativity.

interdependent

Suggests a more balanced and healthy form of reliance, where both parties benefit.

enmeshed relationship

Highlights the blurring of boundaries and loss of individual identity.

in a dependent relationship

A more general term for describing a state of reliance.

unhealthy attachment

Focuses on the emotional bond and its negative consequences.

reliant on each other

Emphasizes the act of relying on one another.

dysfunctional relationship

A broader term that can encompass codependency and other unhealthy dynamics.

symbiotic relationship

Illustrates the close relationship where two organisms are always together.

parasitic relationship

Highlights the imbalance of power and exploitation.

FAQs

How to use "co-dependent" in a sentence?

You can use "co-dependent" to describe a relationship, a person, or behaviors, such as: "Their relationship was "co-dependent", with each person relying on the other for their self-worth", or "He was a "co-dependent" individual, always seeking validation from others".

What can I say instead of "co-dependent"?

You can use alternatives like "mutually dependent", "interdependent" (if the relationship is healthy), or "in a dependent relationship".

Which is correct, "co-dependent" or "codependent"?

"Co-dependent" with a hyphen is more commonly accepted and considered the standard form. "Codependent" without the hyphen is also sometimes used, but less frequently.

What's the difference between "co-dependent" and "enmeshed"?

"Co-dependent" describes a relationship where individuals excessively rely on each other, while "enmeshed" /s/enmeshed+relationship describes a relationship with poorly defined boundaries, often leading to a loss of individual identity.