B2nounpsychologyhealth
US/dɪˈpen.dəns/
UK/dɪˈpen.dəns/
a state of needing someone or something to survive, succeed or feel normal
In context
The country wants to reduce its dependence on imported oil.
His dependence on his phone worries his parents.
Many patients develop a dependence on strong painkillers.
Words that go with dependence
noun + preposition
- dependence onOur dependence on technology keeps growing.
adjective + noun
- heavy dependenceThe island has a heavy dependence on tourism.
- growing dependenceThere is a growing dependence on online shopping.
- mutual dependenceTrade creates mutual dependence between nations.
verb + noun
- reduce dependenceSolar power can reduce dependence on coal.
- develop a dependenceSome people develop a dependence on caffeine.
noun + noun
- drug dependenceHe is being treated for drug dependence.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
dependence fromCorrect: dependence on
Incorrect:
dependanceCorrect: dependence