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rely

Meaning in simple English, pronunciation and examples

Pronunciation: US /rɪˈlaɪ/

Forms: relies, relying, relied

rely means: To need something and trust that it will be available or work as expected.

verb

DEPEND ON SOMETHINGB1

To need something and trust that it will be available or work as expected.

  • We rely on public transport.
  • They relied on accurate maps during the journey.
  • Can we rely on the weather staying dry?

How to use it: rely on something (We rely on electricity to heat the house.)

Similar words: depend, count on

Common phrases: rely on something, rely on transport, rely on funding

TRUST SOMEONEB1

To trust someone to help you or do what you need.

  • You can rely on me.
  • We relied on Anna to finish the report.
  • Who do you rely on for advice?

How to use it: rely on someone to do something (I rely on my sister to collect the children.); rely on someone for something (He relies on his friends for support.)

Similar words: count on, depend on, trust

Common phrases: rely on someone, rely on friends

Questions about rely

What does rely mean?

To need something and trust that it will be available or work as expected.

What is rely in other languages?

Türkçe: bel bağlamak · Español: depender · Français: compter sur · Deutsch: sich verlassen · Italiano: contare su · 日本語: 頼る

How do you pronounce rely?

It is pronounced /rɪˈlaɪ/.

How do you use rely in a sentence?

We rely on public transport. They relied on accurate maps during the journey.

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Phrases with rely

rely in other languages

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