relying

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "relying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing dependence or trust in someone or something. Example: "I am relying on your expertise to guide us through this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He developed the skill to climb difficult walls without ropes, relying on a small chute on his back in case he fell.

The Guardian

Despite delivering well-aimed punches on Darling's lack of detail about future tax powers and Scotland's viability outside the UK, the first minister flailed on his "plan B" proposals for a currency now that the UK parties had vetoed a deal on the pound, relying on poorly judged quips about no campaigners worrying about aliens invading Scotland.

The Guardian

Rodgers employs two key words to trigger his squad and himself: "I always say to the players: 'You can either create or wait.' If you're waiting you're relying on someone else, as simple as that.

The Guardian - Sport

I am now relying on the BBC investing in some Chinese government-style expertise to employ internet censors in Broadcasting House who can be relied on to block only any item which might upset the IOC lawyers – leaving me with the pleasure of hearing the racing tips, Vince Cable, and John Humphrys grumbling about any warm weather that accidentally comes to the UK.

The Guardian

Instead of relying on animal tests, the new research involved creating human cells in a laboratory dish.

The Guardian

A mother of two autistic children starts to cry as she tells of her struggle to get any help at all, with no disability living allowance, relying on food parcels from her father.

The Guardian - Opinion

Relying on the fact that few of us regularly click beyond the first page of search results, lobbyists make negative content "disappear".

The Guardian

The initiative for the IBA's storage and verification system, known as eyeWitness to Atrocities, stems from difficulties prosecutors experienced in relying on disputed footage of the alleged execution of captured Tamil Tiger fighters during the closing stages of Sri Lanka's civil war.

The Guardian - Tech

So once again we've realised that these models that we're relying on are unable to keep up with reality.

The Guardian

After five days of residents relying on bottled water, Montana's Department of Environmental Quality DEQQ) announced on Friday that Glendive's water treatment plant had been decontaminated and the city's water was safe to drink.

The Guardian

We are trying to establish projects inside Syria to fund our activities and stop relying on foreign aid.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relying", ensure that the subject you are relying on is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "relying on models", specify "relying on economic models".

Common error

Avoid overstating the degree of certainty when using "relying". It implies dependence but not necessarily guaranteed success. Acknowledge potential risks or uncertainties, for example stating: "While relying on this data, we must also consider other factors".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "relying" is that of a present participle, often used as part of a continuous verb form or as an adjective modifying a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates an ongoing action of dependence. For example, "They are relying on external funding" uses it in a continuous tense, while "A strategy relying on innovation" uses it adjectivally.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relying" functions as a present participle indicating dependence or trust. Ludwig AI shows its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, especially in News & Media. While versatile, it's important to define what you are "relying" on and avoid overstating certainty. Alternatives like "depending on" or "counting on" can be used based on the specific context. While the register is generally neutral, ensuring clarity and acknowledging potential risks enhances the effectiveness of its use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depending on

Emphasizes conditionality or contingency more strongly than "relying".

counting on

Implies a strong expectation or assurance.

trusting in

Highlights the aspect of confidence and faith.

depending upon

A more formal variant of "depending on".

banking on

Suggests a high degree of certainty in the outcome.

placing reliance on

A more formal and emphatic way of expressing dependence.

being dependent on

Highlights the state of being conditioned by external factors.

swearing by

Indicates a firm belief in the effectiveness or reliability.

leaning on

Suggests a supportive or assisting role.

assuming

Focuses on taking something for granted without absolute proof.

FAQs

How to use "relying" in a sentence?

You can use "relying" to indicate dependence on something or someone. For example, "The company is "relying on" new technology to increase efficiency."

What can I say instead of "relying"?

You can use alternatives like "depending on", "counting on", or "trusting in" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "relying on" or "relying in"?

"Relying on" is the correct and standard usage. "Relying in" is not typically used in modern English. The preposition "on" indicates dependence or trust.

What's the difference between "relying" and "assuming"?

"Relying" implies a degree of trust or dependence on something known or expected. "Assuming" involves taking something for granted without concrete proof. "Relying" suggests a more informed basis than "assuming".