Rely

Definition

The term "rely" describes the act of depending on someone or something for support or trust.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈlaɪ/
• Respelling: ri-LY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈlaɪ/
• Respelling: ri-LY

Etymology

The word "rely" originates from the Old French "relier," meaning "to bind together," derived from the Latin "religare," where "re-" means "back" and "ligare" means "to bind." It evolved in Middle English to imply dependence or trust.

Derivatives

• Reliance (noun)
• Reliable (adjective)
• Reliably (adverb)
• Unreliable (adjective)
• Reliant (adjective)

Synonyms

• Depend
• Trust
• Count on

Antonyms

• Mistrust
• Doubt
• None

Usage

The term "rely" is used in contexts that emphasize dependence, trust, or assurance. For example, "You can rely on him to deliver the project on time" or "Farmers often rely on seasonal rainfall for irrigation."

Related Terms

• Dependence: The state of relying on someone or something.
• Trust: Firm belief in the reliability or ability of someone or something.
• Assurance: Confidence or certainty in an action or outcome.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To depend on someone or something for support or help: Refers to placing confidence in a person or entity.
  • Example: "She relies on her team for accurate data analysis."
• To trust in the ability or strength of something: Refers to expecting something to function as intended.
  • Example: "He relies on his car to get to work every day."