Definition

The state of depending on someone or something for support, help, or confidence.

Example

Her reliance on her friends helped her through tough times.

Conversation

I think our reliance on technology is getting out of hand.

I agree, sometimes I feel lost without my phone.

Yeah, it’s like we can't even communicate face-to-face anymore.

True! We should try to be more present in our conversations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reliance → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "liance" (from the Old French *lier*, meaning to bind or tie). The word "reliance" means the act of relying or depending on someone or something again, as if binding oneself to it.

Memory Tip

Think of 'binding' ('lier') yourself 'again' ('re-') to someone or something — that's why reliance means depending on them.

Visually Confused Words