Dependency vs. Dependence: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sara Rehman || Updated on November 11, 2023
"Dependency" often refers to a state of relying on or needing something, while "dependence" is the condition of being dependent on something or someone.
Key Differences
"Dependency" often implies a relationship in which one entity relies on another for support or resources, like a country's dependency on imported oil. While, "dependence" refers to the state or condition of being reliant on or influenced by something or someone, like a person's dependence on medication.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
In political or social contexts, a dependency may denote a territory that relies on a governing country. However, dependence, in a psychological context, can refer to an individual's reliance on a substance or behavior.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
"Dependency" can be used to describe a situation where there is a lack of independence, such as a child's dependency on their parents. Whereas, "dependence" also refers to a state of needing something for functioning, like a plant's dependence on sunlight.
Huma Saeed
Nov 11, 2023
In software engineering, dependency refers to a situation where a program relies on another component. Dependence in a broader sense can describe a scenario where continuity or existence is contingent on a specific condition or entity.
Janet White
Nov 11, 2023
Dependency might also imply a subordinate or auxiliary status, as in a colony's dependency on its ruling nation. Dependence is often used to describe a general state of reliance, such as economic dependence on a particular industry.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
A relationship where one entity relies on another
The condition of being dependent
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Usage Context
Often used in political, social, or technical contexts
Broadly used in psychological, physical, and general contexts
Huma Saeed
Nov 11, 2023
Connotation
Can imply a subordinate or auxiliary relationship
Indicates a state or condition of reliance
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Examples
Territories dependent on a governing country, software dependencies
Substance dependence, economic dependence
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Dependency/Dependence on Entities
Reliance on specific entities or systems
General state of requiring support or resources
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Dependency and Dependence Definitions
Dependency
A subordinate or auxiliary relationship.
The colony was once a dependency of a European empire.
Huma Saeed
Nov 11, 2023
Dependence
Reliance on a substance, activity, or habit.
Her dependence on caffeine to start the day was well-known.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Dependency
In software, a component required for another component to function.
The new app has several dependencies that need to be resolved.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Dependence
The state of requiring something for support, sustenance, or survival.
His dependence on glasses for reading was increasing.
Huma Saeed
Nov 11, 2023
Dependency
A condition of being influenced or determined by something.
His emotional dependency on approval was hindering his progress.
Janet White
Nov 11, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Dependence
Being contingent on or determined by something else.
The success of the project had a high dependence on funding.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Dependency
A state of relying on or needing someone or something for aid.
The island's economy has a strong dependency on tourism.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Dependence
The condition of being influenced by or subject to something.
The region's economic dependence on agriculture is significant.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Dependency
A territory subject to a sovereign state.
Puerto Rico is a dependency of the United States.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Dependence
A psychological or emotional condition of needing support or reassurance.
His emotional dependence on his family was very strong.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
Dependence
The state of being determined, influenced, or controlled by something else
The economy's dependence on oil.
Sara Rehman
Apr 15, 2023
Dependence
The condition of being dependent on a substance such as a drug or on a given behavior
Alcohol dependence.
Gambling dependence.
Sara Rehman
Apr 15, 2023
FAQs
Can a country have a dependency?
Yes, a country can have dependencies in the form of territories that rely on it.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
What is substance dependence?
Substance dependence is a condition where an individual relies on a drug or substance.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
How does dependency manifest in software?
In software, a dependency is a component that a program needs to function properly.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
What does 'dependency' mean?
'Dependency' refers to a state of being reliant on something or someone, often in a subordinate relationship.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
How is 'dependence' defined?
'Dependence' is the condition of needing something or someone for support or functioning.
Huma Saeed
Nov 11, 2023
What are examples of political dependencies?
Political dependencies include territories like Guam or the Virgin Islands relying on larger nations.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
What is codependency?
Codependency is a dysfunctional relationship pattern where one person enables another's poor behavior.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
How can dependence be treated in addiction?
Dependence in addiction can be treated with therapy, medication, and support groups.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
Can dependence be emotional?
Yes, emotional dependence is when someone relies heavily on another's emotional support.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
Can dependencies exist in relationships?
Yes, dependencies can exist in relationships where one partner relies significantly on the other.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Is drug dependence the same as addiction?
Drug dependence is often a component of addiction, but they are not exactly the same.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Is dependence always negative?
Dependence is not always negative; it can be a normal part of healthy relationships or systems.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Are dependencies common in global trade?
Dependencies are common in global trade, with countries relying on others for certain goods.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
How is emotional dependency addressed in therapy?
Emotional dependency is addressed in therapy through building self-esteem and independence.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
How does economic dependency affect countries?
Economic dependency can make a country vulnerable to external market changes.
Janet White
Nov 11, 2023
Can dependence lead to vulnerabilities?
Dependence can lead to vulnerabilities, especially if the support system fails.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
What role does dependency play in colonization?
In colonization, dependencies often refer to territories controlled by a colonizing nation.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 11, 2023
Can dependence be healthy in certain contexts?
In some contexts, like ecosystems, dependence can be a healthy part of interdependence.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
How does social media create dependency?
Social media creates dependency through constant connectivity and reliance on digital interaction.
Harlon Moss
Nov 11, 2023
What's the impact of technological dependency?
Technological dependency can lead to over-reliance on digital tools and systems.
Sara Rehman
Nov 11, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sara RehmanSara Rehman is a seasoned writer and editor with extensive experience at Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Information Technology, she combines her academic prowess with her passion for writing to deliver insightful and well-researched content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
