Definition

1. 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

1. mutually dependent