dependable

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "dependable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is reliable, trustworthy, and can be counted on. Example: She is a dependable employee; you can always count on her to get the job done.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Dependable vet Bones will move to Thursday night where it is being paired with the languishing Sleepy Hollow, which moves from Monday.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Luckily, a few video-makers remained as dependable as ever in 2014.

The Guardian - Film

He is remembered, if he is remembered, by Southampton fans as a dependable but unexciting centre-half.

The Guardian - Sport

Dr Lyons' once-unreliable online lectures are now dependable.

The Economist

Either tech firms will find ways to make web-connected gadgets more dependable, or people will decide they can live without them.

The Economist

The aim of the Japan-firsters is nothing less than to turn Japan into an Asian equivalent of Britain: America's most dependable ally and closest associate in a whole region.This is not the first time the policy has been tried.

The Economist

In addition, Japan's alliances would be stronger and more dependable if the country were a fully active member of them, able to shoulder its burden and come to its allies' defence.

The Economist

There is a wide choice of dependable sellers, such as BHP Billiton (Anglo-Australian), Glencore (Anglo-Swiss), Peabody Energy and Arch Coal (both American).Other fuels are beset by state interference and cartels, but in this industry consumers in heating, power generation and metallurgy are firmly in charge, keeping prices low.

The Economist

Because human beings, even in blue, are so corruptible, some crime-fighters argue that the most dependable new ingredient in the police armoury is not human leg-power, but computerised intelligence.On the screenThe man behind this notion, Jack Maple, is a dandy who affects dark glasses, homburgs and two-tone shoes; yet he has become something of a legend in America's police departments.

The Economist

If the turnout is low, Mr Kim will probably win, because his supporters are so dependable.

The Economist

Scientists prefer to work with the offspring of animals raised in laboratories because knowledge of the creatures' complete medical history makes them more dependable.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's character, use "dependable" to emphasize their consistent reliability, as in "a dependable friend".

Common error

Avoid using "dependable" excessively in very formal business documents; consider alternatives like "reliable" or "trustworthy" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "dependable" is as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe their reliability or trustworthiness. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates something or someone can be counted on.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "dependable" is a common and versatile term used to describe someone or something reliable and trustworthy. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing and offers various examples of its usage in real-world contexts. It appears frequently in news and media, formal business settings, and academic writing. While highly useful, consider synonyms like "reliable" or "trustworthy" for nuanced expression or in more formal situations. Ultimately, "dependable" remains a solid choice for conveying consistency and assurance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reliable

Focuses on consistency in performance or behavior.

trustworthy

Emphasizes integrity and honesty.

responsible

Highlights accountability and duty.

steady

Suggests stability and consistency over time.

safe

Indicates security and lack of risk.

secure

Implies confidence and protection.

honest

Emphasizes truthfulness and moral uprightness.

true

Highlights faithfulness and loyalty.

rock-steady

Emphasizes unshakeable reliability.

steady-going

Highlights consistency in progress or behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "dependable" in a sentence?

"Dependable" describes someone or something you can rely on. For instance, "She's a "dependable" colleague who always meets deadlines".

What are some synonyms for "dependable"?

Alternatives include "reliable", "trustworthy", and "responsible", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is "dependable"?

Yes, it is perfectly correct. "Dependable" is a commonly used and well-understood adjective to describe someone who is reliable and can be counted on.

What is the difference between "dependable" and "reliable"?

While similar, "dependable" often suggests a consistent character trait of being able to be counted on, whereas "reliable" may refer more to the consistent performance of a task or function.