complete dependence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete dependence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something relies entirely on another person or thing for support or functionality. Example: "Her complete dependence on her parents for financial support made it difficult for her to become independent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In fish, for example, all scale formation depends on eda; and in mammals, sweat gland development similarly shows a complete dependence on the EDA pathway [6], [7].

Plosone

Men are not really created independent: they are born in a state of complete dependence.

The New York Times - Arts

The complete dependence on the industry, whatever the risks may be, is stark.

The New York Times

But she was just in such misery, and she so loathed the complete dependence and the indignity.

The Guardian

"The energy crisis that I see is in our current, almost complete dependence on fossil fuels," he states.

The Guardian

Complete dependence on translations may give rise to misunderstanding and misinterpretation.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Ivan's sudden departure had demonstrated Russia's complete dependence on his person.

The Economist

The final chapters combine Fong's twin passions, as he explores the limits of human endurance and the body's complete dependence on engineering in space.

The Guardian - Books

On health care reform, he said: "I think we need to divorce the complete dependence so many people have on employment for their insurance.

The New York Times

The government had hoped that the new energy source would reduce the nation's almost complete dependence on imported Russian gas, supplied by Gazprom.

The Guardian

But although I was thoroughly fascinated and charmed by Phil, I was also slightly resentful, when I thought about it, at feeling such complete dependence on another person . .

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complete dependence", clearly specify on what or whom the subject is completely dependent to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "The project showed complete dependence", say "The project showed complete dependence on external funding".

Common error

Avoid using "complete dependence" when the reliance is not absolute. If there's even a small degree of independence or alternative resources, opt for phrases like "significant dependence" or "heavy reliance" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete dependence" functions as a noun phrase that describes a state of total reliance on something or someone. It indicates a lack of autonomy and a strong reliance on an external entity for support or function. This is supported by Ludwig's examples showing various contexts from biological processes to economic reliance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

42%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complete dependence" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase signifying total reliance on something or someone. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usage across various domains, including news, science, and academia. While versatile, it's crucial to use it accurately, avoiding overstatement when the reliance isn't absolute. Alternatives like "total reliance" or "utter dependence" can provide nuanced variations. Being mindful of these aspects will enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

total reliance

Emphasizes the extent of reliance as being absolute and without exception.

utter dependence

Highlights the degree of dependence as being extreme or absolute.

full reliance

Stresses that reliance is comprehensive and covers all aspects.

absolute dependence

Indicates a dependence that is unrestricted and unconditional.

entire dependence

Highlights the completeness of the dependence.

total dependency

Focuses on the state of being dependent, using a noun form.

unconditional reliance

Highlights that the reliance is not subject to any conditions or limitations.

inescapable dependence

Emphasizes that dependence is unavoidable and cannot be escaped.

sheer reliance

Highlights that reliance is simple and unadorned.

blind dependence

Highlights that reliance is without questioning or critical evaluation.

FAQs

How can I use "complete dependence" in a sentence?

You can use "complete dependence" to describe situations where something or someone relies entirely on another entity. For example: "The company's "complete dependence" on a single supplier made it vulnerable to disruptions."

What are some alternatives to "complete dependence"?

Alternatives to "complete dependence" include "total reliance", "utter dependence", or "full reliance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "complete dependence" or "complete independence"?

The choice between "complete dependence" and "complete independence" depends entirely on the context. "Complete dependence" signifies total reliance, while "complete independence" signifies total self-sufficiency. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the relationship you are describing.

What does "complete dependence" imply about the relationship between two entities?

"Complete dependence" implies an asymmetrical relationship where one entity is entirely reliant on the other for survival, function, or success. This can create vulnerabilities and power imbalances, as the dependent entity lacks autonomy.