we rely on

USAGE SUMMARY

"we rely on" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to indicate that someone or something is dependent on someone or something else for support, help, or supply. Example: We rely on our team members to complete the project on time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We rely on one another".

The New York Times

"We rely on them.

The New York Times

So we rely on rats.

The New York Times - Magazine

We rely on food stamps.

The Guardian - Business

"We rely on property taxes.

The New York Times

"We rely on their intelligence".

The New Yorker

"We rely on them for everything".

The New York Times - Tech

"We rely on our bench a lot.

The New York Times - Sports

"We rely on each other," Rostom said.

The New York Times

We rely on legal rules.

The New York Times

We rely on him heavily".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the specific nuance you want to convey. While "we rely on" is generally appropriate, alternatives like "we depend on" or "we count on" can add subtle differences in meaning.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "rely on" in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "depend on", "count on", or "trust in" to maintain reader engagement and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we rely on" functions as a verb phrase indicating dependence or reliance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it expresses that something or someone is essential for support or fulfillment, highlighting the act of depending on someone or something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

28%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we rely on" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase expressing dependence or reliance. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse settings. To enhance your writing, consider varying your language with alternatives such as we depend on or we count on to add nuanced meaning and avoid repetition. By understanding its function, purpose, and context, you can effectively use "we rely on" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we depend on

This alternative is nearly synonymous, emphasizing a strong need or requirement.

we count on

This suggests a level of trust and expectation that someone or something will perform as needed.

we are banking on

Implies a strong hope or confidence that something will happen or be successful.

we are pinning our hopes on

This conveys a sense of vulnerability and high stakes, suggesting a crucial reliance.

we place our trust in

Highlights the element of trust and confidence in the reliability of something or someone.

we put our faith in

This suggests a belief in the reliability or efficacy of something, often without concrete evidence.

we are at the mercy of

Expresses a situation of complete dependence with little control.

we are sustained by

Indicates that something provides the necessary support to continue or survive.

we are supported by

Suggests that something offers aid or assistance, either materially or emotionally.

our survival hinges on

This indicates a critical dependence where failure to rely on it would result in severe consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "we rely on" in a sentence?

Use "we rely on" to indicate dependence on someone or something for support or assistance. For example, "We rely on our team to meet deadlines".

What can I say instead of "we rely on"?

You can use alternatives like "we depend on", "we count on", or "we trust in" depending on the context.

Is "we rely on" formal or informal?

"We rely on" is suitable for various contexts, from formal to informal. The specific context and audience should guide your choice. Alternatives such as "we depend on" might be perceived as slightly more formal.

Which is correct, "we rely on" or "we rely in"?

"We rely on" is the correct usage. "Rely" is typically followed by the preposition "on". Using "in" is grammatically incorrect in this context.