B2verb1K

UK/["/rɪˈlaɪ/","/rɪˈlaɪz/","/rɪˈlaɪd/","/rɪˈlaɪɪŋ/"]/US/["/rɪˈlaɪ/","/rɪˈlaɪz/","/rɪˈlaɪd/","/rɪˈlaɪɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Rely

In simple words: To depend on someone or something for help or support.

Rely in a sentence

  • I can always rely on my best friend.
  • You shouldn't rely solely on luck to succeed.
  • She relies on public transport to get to work.

How to use Rely

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. Be careful not to confuse with 'trust'. Not suitable in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

rely + on + object

Memory hint

Think of 'rely' as needing to 'lean' on someone.

Related words

Collocations with Rely

  • rely on someone
  • rely heavily
  • rely mostly
  • rely primarily

Synonyms for Rely

Opposites of Rely

Common mistakes with Rely

  • Mistakenly use 'rely' without 'on'
  • Confused with 'lie' in context
  • Using 'rely' with inanimate objects incorrectly

Compare Rely with Depend, Count, Lean, Bank, Trust

Rely appears in

Rely in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Rely

What does Rely mean?

To depend on someone or something for help or support.

What is the definition of Rely?

To depend on someone or something for assistance or support.

How do you use Rely in a sentence?

I can always rely on my best friend.

Can you give another example of Rely?

You shouldn't rely solely on luck to succeed.

What are synonyms for Rely?

Common alternatives include depend, count, lean, bank, trust.

What is the opposite of Rely?

Opposite meanings include distrust, neglect, abandon.

What words go with Rely?

It commonly pairs with rely on someone, rely heavily, rely mostly, rely primarily.

What are common mistakes when using Rely?

Mistakenly use 'rely' without 'on' Confused with 'lie' in context Using 'rely' with inanimate objects incorrectly

How do you pronounce Rely?

US: /["/rɪˈlaɪ/","/rɪˈlaɪz/","/rɪˈlaɪd/","/rɪˈlaɪɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/rɪˈlaɪ/","/rɪˈlaɪz/","/rɪˈlaɪd/","/rɪˈlaɪɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Rely?

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. Be careful not to confuse with 'trust'. Not suitable in very formal contexts.

What CEFR level is Rely?

"Rely" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.