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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.

Zhou said her peers rely on the student regent post to raise concerns about policing, student workers and student services.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Kelly could no longer rely on the steady viewership of a TV channel, with those perma-couch news addicts who couldn’t be bothered to change the channel when the program that preceded hers ended.

From Slate • May 6, 2026

The bureau said Canadian producers rely on that hub to process natural-gas liquids into specific products, and to store them.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

While the drugs themselves aren’t funded by the NIH, they rely on a broader research base that draws heavily from NIH-supported work.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

“He thinks,” said the landlord, a weakly meditative man with a pale eye, who seemed to rely greatly on his Jack,—“he thinks they was, what they wasn’t.”

From "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens

Vocabulary lists containing rely

Because of Winn-Dixie

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Ancient Egypt and Kush, Lessons 1–3

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Thirteen Reasons Why

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