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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.

Brain-computer interfaces exist today, but many of them rely on drilling a hole in the skull and implanting a physical interface to allow the brain to communicate with external devices.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Hollywood’s hopes for success in the rest of 2026 rely in part on two other animated sequels: Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5” in June and Universal and Illumination’s “Minions & Monsters” in July.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

The party appeared to overcome this controversy by joining hands with Shah, a charismatic politician around whom voters could rally, but who had no organised party structure to rely on.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

With Iran’s air defenses largely degraded, they can instead rely on weapons such as laser-guided bombs, helping ease pressure on stockpiles.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

And this, as she knows—as she knows very, very well—is a terrifying thing to rely on.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

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