total dependence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "total dependence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complete reliance on someone or something, often in contexts discussing relationships, addiction, or reliance on technology. Example: "His total dependence on his smartphone has affected his ability to interact with others face-to-face."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a country, it's a near total dependence," says Vince.

The Guardian

She recalls how the close attachment between her & her father developed into their total dependence on each other.

The New Yorker

Then, with the Soviet collapse in 1991, total dependence on the state turned overnight into a huge liability.

The New York Times

It could mean the difference between total dependence on the state pension and being comfortably off in old age.

The Guardian - Money

The total dependence of humans on other life-forms for survival and sustenance may be underscored in this scenario.

Yale University

The total dependence of kL on μL is -0.73 for the packing examined.

Energy Procedia

"All charming people have something to conceal, usually their total dependence on the appreciation of others," Cyril Connolly wrote in "Enemies of Promise".

The New Yorker

Those questions are about the degree to which the management's long-term aim of reducing ITV's near total dependence on fickle advertising revenues has been fulfilled.

The Guardian

It charts her many affairs, most famously with boxer Marcel Cerdan, her total dependence on the adrenalin of performance, and her even greater reliance on booze and drugs.

The Guardian

Many of these derive from Castro's almost total dependence on the Soviet Union, which he does not relish but for which he has no immediate substitute.

The New Yorker

The sentimental vision of improvised families is based on the total commitment and total dependence of a black man whose deferential manner reeks of subjugation and fear.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "total dependence", clearly specify the entity or resource upon which the dependence is placed to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of "total dependence" without sufficient evidence or context. Ensure that the described effects are realistically attributable to the dependence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "total dependence" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI indicates that it describes a state of complete reliance. It's often used to identify a critical vulnerability or a defining characteristic of a system or entity, as seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

7%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "total dependence" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a state of complete reliance. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across various contexts. It appears frequently in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, often to highlight vulnerabilities or defining characteristics. When using this phrase, clearly specify the entity or resource being depended upon. Alternatives include "complete reliance" and "absolute dependence". While versatile, it's important to avoid exaggerating the consequences without sufficient evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete reliance

Emphasizes the completeness of the reliance.

absolute dependence

Highlights the absoluteness of the dependence.

utter dependence

Stresses the extent of the dependence.

full reliance

Similar to complete reliance, focusing on the fullness.

complete dependency

Uses "dependency" instead of "dependence", carrying a similar meaning.

unconditional reliance

Indicates that the reliance is without conditions or limitations.

sole dependence

Suggests that there is only one source of reliance.

entire reliance

Highlights the all-encompassing nature of the reliance.

complete reliance on

Adds "on" to specify what is being relied upon.

absolute necessity

Focuses on the need that arises from a state of dependence.

FAQs

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

You can use "total dependence" to describe a complete reliance on someone or something. For example, "The country's "total dependence" on oil exports makes it vulnerable to price fluctuations."

What are some alternatives to "total dependence"?

Alternatives include "complete reliance", "absolute dependence", or "utter dependence". Each offers a slightly different nuance while conveying a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "total dependence on" or "total dependence of"?

"Total dependence on" is generally preferred and more grammatically correct when specifying what is being depended upon. "Total dependence of" is less common and often sounds awkward.

How does "total dependence" differ from "interdependence"?

"Total dependence" implies a one-way reliance, whereas "interdependence" suggests a mutual reliance between two or more parties.