interdependent
/,intədi'pendənt/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Mutually dependent: Describes a relationship where two or more things, people, or groups rely on each other for support, function, or existence. Each part is both dependent on and necessary for the others.
Usage
- The word "interdependent" is used to describe systems, relationships, or components that cannot function or exist independently. It emphasizes a two-way or multi-way reliance.
- It is typically used in formal, academic, or technical contexts (e.g., ecology, economics, sociology) but is also applicable to everyday situations describing close relationships.
- Common collocations include: , , , .
Examples
- In a sentence:
- In a healthy ecosystem, plants and animals are interdependent.
- The global economy is highly interdependent; a crisis in one country can affect many others.
- Their partnership was successful because they had an interdependent relationship built on mutual trust.
Advanced Usage
- "to be interdependent on/upon": While "interdependent" itself implies mutual reliance, it can be followed by "on" or "upon" to specify the domain or context of dependence, though this is less common.
- The two nations are interdependent upon each other for trade and security.
Variants and Related Words
- Interdependence (n): The state or condition of being interdependent.
- The interdependence of modern supply chains makes them vulnerable to disruption.
- Interdependently (adv): In an interdependent manner.
- The organs in the body function interdependently.
Synonyms
- Mutually dependent: Relying on each other (a near-identical synonym).
- Symbiotic: In biology, a close, long-term interaction; more broadly, a mutually beneficial relationship.
- Interconnected: Having connections between parts, which often implies interdependence.
- Codependent: In psychology, an excessive emotional or psychological reliance on a partner, often unhealthy. (Note: This has a more specific, often negative connotation compared to "interdependent").
Antonyms
- Independent: Not relying on another for support or function.
- Self-sufficient: Able to supply one's own needs without external assistance.
- Autonomous: Having the freedom to govern itself or control its own affairs.
Related Phrases/Concepts
- Interdependent network: A system where the components rely on each other.
- Complex interdependence: A theory in international relations describing multiple channels connecting societies, an absence of hierarchy among issues, and a minor role of military force.
Adjective
- mutually dependent