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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.

Economists say it is a sign of things to come for countries in Europe and Africa that also rely on imports from the Middle East.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

“So-called ‘no body’ cases are some of the most difficult to prove because they rely so heavily on circumstantial evidence.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Helen and Lee said it was a "fatally flawed position" to rely on people knowing signs and symptoms, adding the "onus shouldn't be on bereaved parents" to raise awareness about MenB.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Where long-simmered soups rely on time to build depth, these build it through contrast: creamy against sharp, rich against bright, soft against crisp.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

One couldn’t rely, he maintained, on experience in any of its many forms.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.