Interdependent: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：mutually reliant (interdependent)

interdependent 🔊

/ˌɪntərdɪˈpendənt/

adj.

describes things or people that need each other to exist or work properly.

Interdependent concept illustrated by a bee pollinating a sunflower and a handshake symbolizing mutual reliance.

mutually reliant 🔊

➕

/ˈmjuːtʃuəli rɪˈlaɪənt/

adj.

Describes a relationship where two or more entities are connected in such a way that each one needs the other(s) to function, exist, or be complete.

📁 Category：Social Economy 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'inter-' (between) + 'dependent' (relying on). Means 'relying on each other'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of the INTERnet: websites are DEPENDENT on each other for links and traffic. INTER + DEPENDENT = mutually connected and relying.

📖 Example

Although we work in different departments, we are interdependent for the project to succeed. 🔊 Although we work in different departments, we are mutually reliant for the project to succeed.

🔗 Collocations

interdependent relationship – a connection where both sides rely on each other

interdependent system – a network of parts that function together

interdependent parts – components that cannot work alone

🔄 Synonyms

interconnected (adj.) – linked or connected with each other

mutualistic (adj.) – involving a mutually beneficial relationship, often in biology

symbiotic (adj.) – involving close, long-term interaction between different organisms, often to mutual advantage

🚫 Antonyms

independent (adj.) – not relying on others; self-sufficient

autonomous (adj.) – self-governing; acting independently

self-sufficient (adj.) – able to supply one's own needs without external assistance

🌱 Derivatives

interdependence (n.) – the state of being interdependent

interdependently (adv.) – in an interdependent manner

📖 Cultural Story

The term gained prominence in the 20th century within systems theory and ecology, describing how components within a system rely on one another. It reflects a shift from viewing entities as isolated to understanding them as connected parts of a whole.