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 this increases the time burden on those that have to rely on artificial-intelligence call centers for problems with their services.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

"I think we would be very tight if we had to rely just on the brewery. If someone came and shut down our taproom tomorrow, we would be in a serious pickle."

From BBC • May 25, 2026

Most producers rely on solar evaporation, a process that pumps brine into enormous outdoor ponds and leaves it exposed to the sun for months or even years until enough water evaporates.

From Science Daily • May 23, 2026

In an interconnected world, global supply-chain operations rely on the frictionless movement of vessels.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

“You should know better than that. You can’t rely on something that old.”

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

rely

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

Vocabulary lists containing rely

Because of Winn-Dixie

Ancient Egypt and Kush, Lessons 1–3

Thirteen Reasons Why

rely

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

Related Words

Vocabulary lists containing rely

Because of Winn-Dixie

Ancient Egypt and Kush, Lessons 1–3

Thirteen Reasons Why