excessive dependence on

USAGE SUMMARY

'excessive dependence on' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a state in which someone relies too heavily on something for their needs or wants, such as an addiction or a material object. For example, "The doctor was concerned about his patient's excessive dependence on alcohol."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jonathan Loynes of Capital Economics said while the changes could help tackle the problems associated with excessive dependence on one single indicator - unemployment - they could make it more difficult to give a "clear and straightforward message".

Independent

The existing control strategies usually lead to the excessive dependence on one type of DSR and the control effect is poor and the response capacity is limited during some of the time periods.

Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy

Mr Putin's plan to wean the economy off its excessive dependence on natural resources depends on fixing these failings, but it is not yet clear that he has either the will or the ability to deliver.How can the West help?By changing attitudes, without changing demands.

The Economist

Mr Vassiliev thinks the country needs a plan to steer away from excessive dependence on the euro zone.In one area the market is already changing.

The Economist

One such leak is the loss of energy dollars because of poorly insulated buildings, car-dependent and poorly planned transportation systems, inefficient municipal services or excessive dependence on energy from other places.

Huffington Post

Carver's efforts had finally helped liberate the South from its excessive dependence on cotton.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another is our excessive dependence on the Calabrian 'Ndrangheta for wholesale cocaine supplies.

The Economist

The flaws include relatively weak capital reserves, excessive dependence on investment banking and a tarnished reputation.

The New York Times

That crisis was caused by Asia's excessive dependence on foreign capital.

The Economist

Global agriculture's excessive dependence on fossil fuel inputs means food prices are invariably linked to oil price spikes.

The Guardian

The economy is, as the leaders acknowledge, seriously unbalanced, with excessive dependence on investment in property construction, infrastructure and exports.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing economic or political issues, use "excessive dependence on" to highlight potential vulnerabilities. For example, "The country's "excessive dependence on" oil exports makes it susceptible to price fluctuations."

Common error

Avoid using "excessive dependence on" when you actually mean interdependence. Interdependence suggests a mutual reliance, whereas "excessive dependence on" implies an unhealthy or unbalanced reliance on something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "excessive dependence on" functions as a descriptor, typically modifying a noun or noun phrase to indicate an over-reliance on something. It highlights a potentially problematic relationship due to disproportionate reliance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "excessive dependence on" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an over-reliance on something, often implying potential negative consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's readily usable in written English. It frequently appears in news, science, and encyclopedia sources. When using this phrase, be mindful of differentiating dependence from interdependence and ensure the context aligns with the intended meaning of unbalanced reliance. Consider alternatives like "high dependence on" or "over-reliance on" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disproportional dependence on

This alternative emphasizes the imbalance in reliance, suggesting a disproportionate amount of reliance.

enormous dependence on

This phrase highlights the significant extent of the reliance.

high dependence on

A general term indicating a substantial degree of reliance.

undue dependence on

This implies that the reliance is inappropriate or unwarranted.

great dependence on

Similar to high dependence on, indicating a considerable amount of reliance.

unsustainable dependence on

Highlights that the reliance cannot be maintained in the long term.

severe dependence on

Emphasizes the gravity and intensity of the reliance.

considerable dependence on

Indicates a noteworthy or significant degree of reliance.

over-reliance on

This alternative directly states the act of relying too much on something.

exaggerated dependence on

Suggests that the reliance is amplified beyond what is necessary or reasonable.

FAQs

How can I use "excessive dependence on" in a sentence?

You can use "excessive dependence on" to describe situations where something is overly relied upon, such as "The company's "excessive dependence on" a single supplier created a significant risk."

What are some alternatives to "excessive dependence on"?

You can use alternatives like "high dependence on", "over-reliance on", or "undue dependence on depending on the context".

Is it better to say "excessive dependence on" or "over-dependence on"?

Both "excessive dependence on" and "over-dependence on" are acceptable, but "excessive dependence on" is slightly more formal and commonly used in academic and professional writing.

What are the negative implications of "excessive dependence on" something?

An "excessive dependence on" something can lead to vulnerability, instability, and a lack of resilience. For example, "excessive dependence on" foreign aid can hinder a country's long-term economic development.