rely
word
/ɹiˈɫaɪ/
ri-LY
/ɹɪlˈaɪ/
ri-LY
Definition
To need or depend on someone or something for help, support, or success. It can also mean to trust that someone or something will do what is expected.
Usage & Nuances
Usually followed by 'on': 'rely on someone/something'. 'Rely on' often suggests practical dependence, while 'rely upon' is more formal. Common patterns: 'rely on help', 'rely on data', 'rely on someone to do something'. Do not say 'rely in'.
Spanish: depender de - confiar enPortuguese (BR): depender de - contar comPortuguese (PT): depender de - contar comChinese (Simplified): 依靠 - 依赖 - 信赖Chinese (Traditional): 依靠 - 依賴 - 信賴Hindi: निर्भर रहना - भरोसा करनाArabic: يعتمد على - يثق بـBengali: ভরসা করা - নির্ভর করাRussian: полагаться - рассчитыватьJapanese: 頼るVietnamese: dựa vào - trông cậy vàoKorean: 의지하다 - 믿다Turkish: güvenmek - bel bağlamakUrdu: بھروسہ کرنا - انحصار کرناIndonesian: mengandalkan - bergantung
Example Sentences
I rely on my phone alarm every morning.
basic
Children rely on adults for care and safety.
basic
You can rely on Anna to finish the work.
basic
We can't rely on the weather, so let's make a backup plan.
natural
I rely on that app more than I probably should.
natural
If the trains are late again, we can't rely on public transport for this commute.
natural