B1verbrelationshipswork
US/rɪˈlaɪ/
UK/rɪˈlaɪ/
to need someone or something, or trust them to help or work as expected
In context
Many families in the countryside rely on farming for their income.
You can rely on Minh; he always finishes his work on time.
Try not to rely too heavily on translation apps when you write.
Words that go with rely
verb + preposition
- rely onSmall shops rely on local customers.
- rely uponThese figures can be relied upon.
adverb + verb
- rely heavily onThe company relies heavily on exports.
- rely solely onDo not rely solely on one source of information.
- rely increasingly onStudents rely increasingly on online videos to learn.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I rely in my parents.Correct: I rely on my parents.