Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
severely dependent
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "severely dependent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong reliance on something or someone, often in a negative context. Example: "After years of using the medication, she found herself severely dependent on it to function daily."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(6)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
24 human-written examples
Dependency is defined as being severely dependent on others in activities of daily living, or being significantly disabled; this corresponds to a Barthel Index score or a modified Rankin Scale grade 3-6 at 3-month follow-up.
Science
According to our estimates, in 2008, 23.1% of CVA survivors would not be considered dependent under the Official Dependency Index criteria [ 21], 23.7% suffered a moderate degree of dependency, 20.6% were classified as severely dependent and a 32.6% as greatly dependent (Table 2).
Science
We need an effective way of dealing with severely dependent, treatment-resistant people seeking help and in most cases this will mean a so-called "agonist" pharmacological treatment.
News & Media
She thinks more data is needed to be truly conclusive on the Bacloville study but so far clinical trials, she says, support the idea that the more severely dependent on alcohol you are, the more likely you are to get benefits from Baclofen.
News & Media
On the other hand, the tensile strength was shown to be severely dependent on the filament length.
Due to their approach in assessing alcohol-related admissions, the researchers identified severely dependent patients only.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
36 human-written examples
Another recent trial evaluating motivational interviewing among MSM club drug users found significant reductions in self-reported club drug use in the intervention arm compared with the control arm but only among the subset of non-severely dependent participants.
Science
It is designed for people who are heavy drinkers but not the most severely-dependent alcoholics.
News & Media
Three cutoff-scores are commonly used, 7 (severely IADL dependent), 4 (moderately IADL dependent) and 1 (mildly dependent) [ 27].
ICU patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation remain severely functionally dependent after ICU discharge, but dependency reduces significantly during rehabilitation in hospital and in a nursing home rehabilitation unit.
Science
Prostitution is legal in Germany but police charge that the four-storey brothel complex constituted a "brutal and illegal" system that severely exploited dependent women.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing a person's condition, use "severely dependent" with caution to avoid stigmatizing language. Consider the individual's perspective and prioritize respectful communication.
Common error
Avoid using "severely dependent" excessively in formal or professional writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "highly reliant" or "requiring significant assistance" to maintain a professional tone.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "severely dependent" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a high degree of reliance or dependence. This usage aligns with Ludwig AI, which confirms its correctness. Examples show it describing reliance on substances, care, or external factors.
Frequent in
Science
73%
News & Media
23%
Encyclopedias
2%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Social Media
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "severely dependent" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjectival phrase, primarily found in scientific and news media contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a state of extreme reliance. When using this phrase, be mindful of the potential for stigmatization and consider more sensitive alternatives when appropriate. While "severely dependent" is valuable for conveying the intensity of reliance, be aware of overuse in professional settings and its potential impact on tone.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
highly dependent
Indicates a strong reliance, but potentially less intense than "severely dependent".
extremely reliant
Similar in intensity to "severely dependent", emphasizing the extent of reliance.
critically dependent
Highlights the essential nature of the dependence; removal would have severe consequences.
utterly reliant
Emphasizes a complete and total dependence, leaving no room for self-sufficiency.
completely dependent
Indicates a total lack of independence; requiring full support.
heavily reliant
Implies a strong reliance, but with a slightly less negative connotation than "severely dependent".
badly dependent
This is a more colloquial alternative to "severely dependent".
excessively dependent
Suggests a dependence that is beyond what is healthy or normal.
inordinately dependent
Highlights the disproportionate level of reliance or dependence.
dangerously dependent
Emphasizes the risk associated with the level of dependence.
FAQs
How can I use "severely dependent" in a sentence?
You can use "severely dependent" to describe a strong reliance on something or someone, such as "The patient was "severely dependent" on the medication to manage their pain".
What are some alternatives to "severely dependent"?
You can use alternatives like "highly reliant", "extremely reliant", or "critically dependent" depending on the context.
What is the difference between "severely dependent" and "moderately dependent"?
"Severely dependent" implies a higher degree of reliance and a greater need for assistance compared to "moderately dependent". A severely dependent individual requires significant support for daily activities.
Is it appropriate to use "severely dependent" when discussing addiction?
While "severely dependent" can be used in the context of addiction, consider using more sensitive language like "experiencing severe addiction" or "struggling with severe dependence" to avoid stigmatizing individuals.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.4/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested