C1nounhealthpsychology
US/dɪˈpen.dən.si/
UK/dɪˈpen.dən.si/
a state of needing something or someone, especially a drug, in order to live normally
In context
Doctors worry about the growing dependency on painkillers among older patients.
The country's dependency on oil makes its economy fragile.
He sought help for his alcohol dependency last year.
Words that go with dependency
noun + noun
- drug dependencyThe clinic treats people with drug dependency.
- alcohol dependencyAlcohol dependency can destroy families.
noun + preposition
- dependency onThe dependency on foreign aid worries the government.
adjective + noun
- financial dependencyMany young adults face financial dependency on their parents.
verb + noun
- reduce dependencyThe plan aims to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
- overcome dependencyIt took him two years to overcome his dependency.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
dependency to alcoholCorrect: dependency on alcohol