reduce dependence on

USAGE SUMMARY

'reduce dependence on' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the need for less reliance upon something. For example, "We need to reduce dependence on oil and find more sustainable sources of energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

While these digital toys reduce dependence on one resource, they increase it on another: energy.

The New York Times

Mr. Brown said no one offered support for expanded offshore drilling as a way to reduce dependence on imported oil.

The New York Times - Science

It also wants to reduce dependence on health and care services.

The Guardian

Another would be to reduce dependence on irrigation, which requires large quantities of water.

The New York Times - Science

Mr. Gore laid out a sweeping plan on Tuesday to reduce dependence on foreign oil.

The New York Times

These could provide environmental benefits and reduce dependence on oil without displacing food production.

The New York Times

"It will reduce dependence on imported oil, and in practice price volatility.

The Guardian

Prudential formed Egg to reduce dependence on its main insurance business.

The New York Times

Last month, Mr. Gore laid out a plan to reduce dependence on foreign oil.

The New York Times

Geothermal resources have potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Energy Strategy Reviews

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Britain has a duty to step up fracking to reduce dependence on gas from Russia, the Prime Minister said yesterday.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advocating for systemic change, use "reduce dependence on" to highlight the need for alternative solutions, such as "reduce dependence on fossil fuels" by investing in renewable energy.

Common error

Avoid using "reduce dependence on" when referring to inherent or natural dependencies. For instance, it would be incorrect to say "reduce dependence on oxygen" because it's a biological necessity, not a reliance that can be altered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reduce dependence on" functions as a verb phrase expressing the action of decreasing reliance on a particular entity or resource. This usage aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of its correctness and usability, as seen in the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reduce dependence on" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that signifies lessening reliance on something. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, and the examples demonstrate its application across various domains, from energy policy to healthcare. While alternatives like "lessen reliance on" exist, the core meaning remains consistent. When using this phrase, ensure that the dependence in question is something that can realistically be altered, and be mindful of the context to maintain clarity and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lessen dependency on

Swaps "dependence" for "dependency", offering a slightly different nuance though largely interchangeable.

lessen reliance on

Replaces "dependence" with "reliance", offering a slightly more formal tone but maintaining the same core meaning.

reduce reliance upon

Replaces "dependence" with "reliance" and uses "upon" instead of "on", slightly increasing formality.

decrease reliance upon

Substitutes "dependence" with "reliance" and uses "upon" instead of "on", resulting in a more formal and emphatic phrasing.

minimize reliance on

Focuses on reducing reliance to the smallest possible amount.

curtail reliance on

Replaces "reduce" with "curtail", suggesting a more forceful or active reduction.

mitigate reliance on

Replaces "reduce" with "mitigate", emphasizing the lessening of negative impacts associated with dependence.

phase out reliance on

Suggests a gradual and planned elimination of reliance.

wean oneself off

Employs a more idiomatic expression, highlighting a gradual detachment from something one is dependent on.

cut back on

Uses a phrasal verb to imply a reduction in use or reliance on something.

FAQs

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

You can use "reduce dependence on" to suggest shifting away from over-reliance on something. For instance, "The city aims to "reduce dependence on cars" by improving public transportation".

What are some alternatives to "reduce dependence on"?

Alternatives include "lessen reliance on", "decrease reliance upon", or "curtail reliance on", each offering slightly different nuances in formality or emphasis.

Is it better to say "reduce dependence on" or "reduce dependency on"?

Both "dependence" and "dependency" are acceptable, but "dependence" is generally more common and preferred in modern usage. Therefore, "reduce dependence on" is usually the better choice.

What does it mean to "reduce dependence on" something?

To "reduce dependence on" something means to lessen the degree to which one relies on it, often in favor of alternative resources or strategies. This is frequently used in discussions about energy, finance, and healthcare.