heavy dependence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "heavy dependence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant reliance on something or someone, often in contexts related to economics, psychology, or technology. Example: "The company's heavy dependence on a single supplier has raised concerns about its long-term sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That could show some heavy dependence.

The Economist

Heavy dependence on the old slows progress toward the new.

The Guardian - Opinion

reflected the state's heavy dependence on war production.

The New York Times

Heavy dependence on the franchisor for continued economic health.

Harvard Business Review

Hattersley's heavy dependence on published sources suggests a lack either of time or, perhaps, commitment.

The Guardian - Books

It could help revitalise Tyndrum, he said, and relieve the village's heavy dependence on tourism.

The Guardian

Ulrich Hartmann, E.ON's chief executive, wants Ruhrgas in part to leaven E.ON's heavy dependence on electricity.

The New York Times

The heavy dependence on cruise missiles reflects the advantages of those weapons, Western officers said.

The New York Times

Perhaps a major indicator of Argentine insecurity is the country's heavy dependence on psychotherapy.

The New York Times

To reduce the country's heavy dependence on oil, economic policy has emphasized agricultural and industrial developments.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Most effects are difficult to predict, because of their heavy dependence on the chemical structures.

Chemical Reviews

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "heavy dependence", consider if the word "heavy" accurately reflects the negative implications of the dependence. If the dependence is simply large but not necessarily problematic, consider alternatives like "strong reliance" or "significant dependence".

Common error

Avoid using "heavy dependence" when a neutral term like "reliance" or "dependence" is more appropriate. "Heavy" implies a burden or negative consequence, which might not always be the case.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heavy dependence" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the state of relying significantly on something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used in writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "heavy dependence" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a significant reliance on something. As Ludwig AI's analysis and examples demonstrate, it frequently appears in news, scientific, and business contexts. While often implying vulnerability or a need for diversification, the negativity of "heavy" should be carefully considered to ensure it aligns with the intended meaning. Alternatives like "strong reliance" or "significant dependence" may be more appropriate in neutral contexts. When employing "heavy dependence", remember to assess whether the "heavy" aspect accurately reflects the burden or negative consequences of the dependence being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong reliance

Emphasizes the degree of reliance rather than the burden associated with it.

significant dependence

Highlights the importance of the dependency.

substantial reliance

Similar to significant dependence, but can also emphasize a material amount.

major dependence

Indicates that the dependence is of considerable importance or scale.

considerable reliance

Stresses the extent and not necessarily the negative connotation of dependence.

over-reliance

Specifically highlights a potential problem with relying too much on something.

excessive dependence

Similar to over-reliance, indicating a degree of dependence that is too high.

high degree of dependency

Formally expresses the extent of the dependency.

marked reliance

Indicates that the reliance is noticeable or obvious.

pronounced dependence

Similar to marked reliance, but slightly more emphatic.

FAQs

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

You can use "heavy dependence" to describe a situation where something relies significantly on something else. For example, "The country's "heavy dependence" on oil exports makes it vulnerable to price fluctuations."

What are some synonyms for "heavy dependence"?

Alternatives to "heavy dependence" include "strong reliance", "significant dependence", and "substantial reliance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "heavy dependence" always negative?

While "heavy" often implies a negative connotation, "heavy dependence" isn't always inherently bad. However, it usually suggests vulnerability or a need for diversification. Consider whether a more neutral term like "reliance" is more appropriate in certain contexts.

What's the difference between "heavy dependence" and "strong reliance"?

"Heavy dependence" often emphasizes the burden or potential negative consequences of the reliance, while "strong reliance" simply highlights the degree of reliance without necessarily implying a problem.