mutually dependent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mutually dependent" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means that two or more things are reliant on each other and cannot function without each other. An example sentence could be: "The success of this project is mutually dependent on the cooperation of all team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are mutually dependent activities with, in reality, the dependence being often broken".

Radioactivity in the Environment

Actually, they are mutually dependent".

The Guardian

They are not mutually dependent in law.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a mutually dependent ecosystem.

The Guardian - Books

Insourcing and outsourcing are not mutually dependent.

The New York Times

Well, they're mutually dependent on each other.

The New Yorker

Kristoff's mutually dependent relationship with his reindeer was … endearing.

The Guardian - Opinion

*in other words, they are mutually dependent on each other.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Corruption and con artistry, in this telling, are mutually dependent, and not always evil.

The New Yorker

In short, it's hard to find two more globally, and mutually, dependent countries.

The New York Times

Does he see his political writing and his fiction as mutually dependent?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "mutually dependent", ensure that both elements being described genuinely rely on each other for their existence, function, or success. Avoid using it for relationships that are merely correlated or beneficial.

Common error

Avoid using "mutually dependent" when the relationship is merely correlational. For instance, saying "sales and marketing are mutually dependent" is incorrect if one can function without the other, even if they ideally work together.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mutually dependent" primarily functions as a compound adjective, modifying a noun to describe a relationship of reciprocal reliance. As Ludwig AI notes, the phrase indicates that two or more things are reliant on each other.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "mutually dependent" is a common and correct way to describe a relationship of reciprocal reliance, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a compound adjective and is suitable for various contexts, from scientific literature to news articles. While synonyms like ""interdependent"" exist, it's important to avoid confusing mutual dependence with simple correlation. By understanding these nuances, you can use "mutually dependent" effectively in your writing to convey a clear sense of interconnectedness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interdependent

A more concise synonym emphasizing reciprocal dependence.

reliant on each other

A more explicit phrasing of the dependence.

reciprocally reliant

Emphasizes the reciprocal nature of the reliance.

symbiotic

Implies a mutually beneficial relationship.

co-dependent

Highlights a specific type of dependence, often in relationships.

inextricably bound

Highlights an extremely tight and inseparable connection.

closely linked

Focuses on the connection rather than the dependence.

inseparable

Suggests a very strong bond, where separation is nearly impossible.

correlated

Indicates a statistical relationship, but not necessarily dependence.

connected

A general term indicating some form of association.

FAQs

How can I use "mutually dependent" in a sentence?

Use "mutually dependent" to describe two or more entities that rely on each other. For example: "The success of the business and the well-being of its employees are "closely linked" and "interdependent"."

What are some alternatives to "mutually dependent"?

Alternatives include "interdependent", "reciprocally reliant", or "symbiotic", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say something is 'very mutually dependent'?

While grammatically correct, adding "very" to "mutually dependent" can be redundant. Consider stronger alternatives like "inextricably bound" or simply rephrasing to emphasize the strength of the relationship.

What is the difference between "mutually dependent" and "mutually exclusive"?

"Mutually dependent" describes a relationship of reliance, while "mutually exclusive" indicates that two things cannot both be true or occur simultaneously. They are opposite in meaning.