Definitions

rely

[ri-lahy] / rɪˈlaɪ /

VERB

have confidence in

Synonyms

STRONG

await bank bet build calculate commit confide count depend entrust expect hope lean look reckon trust

WEAK

be confident of be sure of believe in bet bottom dollar on gamble on have faith in lay money on ride on coattails swear by

Antonyms

STRONG

disbelieve disregard ignore keep straighten

WEAK

be independent distrust doubt

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for rely?

The closest synonym for rely in many contexts is depend. Rely is often used in the verb phrase rely on, and the phrases depend on and count on often mean the same thing. Saying that you rely on a person suggests an element of confidence or trust—it means that you know you can depend on them without them letting you down. In this sense, a person or thing on which you rely can be described as reliable or dependable. Saying that an outcome relies on something means that it’s necessary for the outcome to happen, as in Our success will rely on preparation and a little bit of luck. The phrases hinge on and rest on can be used in the same way.

Are rely and support synonyms?

Rely and support are often used in the same contexts, but they aren’t synonyms. Instead, they’re more like the two different ends of the same interaction: typically, if you’re relying on someone, they’re supporting you. The support is what’s being relied on.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But there are currently few of those dates for the palaces to rely upon.

From BBC

Russia last year relied on the fleet to transport around 80% of its crude and oil products, analysts estimated.

From The Wall Street Journal

She said they relied on avalanche experts, who said the disaster spread across the size of an American football field and was nearly powerful enough to take out a house.

From BBC

Chicken of the Sea International is studying whether the ruling could help revive production at a Georgia canning plant that relies on imported tuna.

From The Wall Street Journal

She says although she is confident the Quiet Revival report is "picking up a true trend", the response to it has shown her that she cannot rely on statistics alone to get the whole picture.

From BBC

rely

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

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