undue dependency

USAGE SUMMARY

'undue dependency' is a correct phrase in written English.
You could use it to mean something like "an unwarranted or disproportionate reliance on someone else". For example, "His undue dependency on his parents to make decisions for him caused tension in the household".

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Excessive dependency on someone else.

WikiHow

Undue influence?

The Economist

And "undue influence".

The New York Times - Books

Extended dependency?

The New York Times

What's an "undue burden"?

The New Yorker

"Does he have undue influence?

The New York Times

"Undue" and "burden".

The Guardian - Opinion

There are undue influences.

The New York Times - Sports

There was no undue use of force".

Independent

This is not an undue hardship.

The Economist

Hardly undue haste.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "undue dependency", ensure you clearly define what constitutes 'undue' in the specific context. Provide examples to illustrate the negative impact of this reliance.

Common error

Avoid using "undue dependency" without explaining on whom or what the dependency exists. Clear context helps the reader understand the specific issue you're addressing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undue dependency" functions as a noun phrase, where "undue" modifies the noun "dependency". It describes a state of relying on someone or something to an excessive or inappropriate degree. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "undue dependency" is grammatically correct and serves to describe an excessive or inappropriate level of reliance, as validated by Ludwig. While examples of the phrase used directly are scarce, indicating a relatively low frequency, the concept is readily understood and applicable across various contexts. Consider using related phrases such as "excessive reliance" or "inappropriate dependence" to add nuance to your writing. It's crucial to provide clear context when using this term to ensure your audience understands the nature and implications of the dependence you're describing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessive reliance

Replaces "dependency" with "reliance", both indicating reliance but potentially differing in intensity.

excessive dependence

Uses "dependence" instead of "dependency", a subtle synonym.

inappropriate dependence

Substitutes "dependency" with "dependence", and "undue" with "inappropriate", shifting the focus to the suitability of the reliance.

unwarranted reliance

Emphasizes that the reliance is not justified or deserved.

disproportionate dependence

Highlights the imbalance or lack of proportion in the dependence.

unjustified dependence

Focuses on the lack of justification for the dependence.

over-reliance

A more concise way of expressing excessive reliance.

unhealthy reliance

Indicates a negative or detrimental aspect of the reliance.

inordinate dependency

Replaces "undue" with "inordinate", suggesting an excessive or extravagant degree of dependency.

extreme dependence

Highlights that the dependence is extreme, moving away from the nuance of justification.

FAQs

How can I use "undue dependency" in a sentence?

You can use "undue dependency" to describe situations where someone relies too much on something or someone. For example, "The company's "undue dependency" on a single supplier put it at risk."

What's another way to say "undue dependency"?

Alternatives include "excessive reliance", "inappropriate dependence", or "unwarranted reliance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does "undue" mean in the context of "undue dependency"?

In this context, "undue" means excessive, inappropriate, or unwarranted. It suggests that the dependency is beyond what is reasonable or acceptable.

Is "undue dependency" the same as addiction?

While both involve reliance, "undue dependency" is broader. Addiction typically refers to a physical or psychological "dependency" on a substance or behavior, while "undue dependency" can apply to various situations, including reliance on people or systems.