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codependency

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌkoʊdɪˈpɛndənsi/

KK: /koʊdɪˈpɛndənsi/

noun
Definition

A situation where one person relies on another for emotional support or needs, often leading to unhealthy relationships.


Example

Their codependency made it difficult for them to make independent decisions.


Conversation
Sloth A
I was reading about codependency in relationships; it’s quite interesting.
Sloth B
Yeah, it can really impact how people interact with each other.
Sloth A
I didn't realize how common codependency is among friends too.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It’s important to maintain a balance in all kinds of relationships.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
interdependence
reliance
dependency
Antonyms
independence
self-sufficiency
autonomy
Root Explanation

Codependency → It is formed from "co-" (meaning together) and "dependere" (meaning to hang down or rely). The word describes a relationship where one person relies on another, often in an unhealthy way, indicating mutual dependence.

Memory Tip

Think of people who are 'together' ('co-') in a way that one 'relies' ('dependere') on the other — that's what codependency means.

Visually Confused Words
dependency
compendency
independency
dependence
pendency
nondependence
corespondency
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