interdependence
in-ter-dee-PEN-duns
/ˌɪntərdɪˈpɛndəns/
The dependence of two or more people or things on each other.
In globalization, it refers to how nations rely on each other for food, energy, and goods.
The story behind the word. From 'inter' (between) and 'dependere' (to hang from). Imagine two mountain climbers tied to the same rope; they are 'hanging' between each other. If one falls, the other is affected.
Word relationships
- mutuality: Focuses on shared feelings or actions rather than a structural need.
- reciprocity: The practice of exchanging things for mutual benefit.
- independence: The state of being free from outside control.
- self-sufficiency: The ability to provide for all one's own needs without help.
Commonly confused with
- interconnectedness: Interconnectedness is the 'wiring'; interdependence is the fact that if the wire breaks, both sides lose power.
Word family
- interdependent (adjective): Dependent on each other.
Collocations
- economic interdependence
- global interdependence
- mutual interdependence
Example sentences
- "The fact of our interdependence is now undeniable; we rise or fall together." A political leader discusses the global economy.
- "The economic interdependence between the two nations meant that tariffs hurt consumers in both countries." Explaining why a trade war hurts both sides.
Memory hook
Think of two people 'depending' on each other 'internally'. They are stuck together. Leaning on each other.
When not to use
Don't use for a one-way relationship where only one person needs the other; that is just 'dependence'.
Fun facts
- The 'Declaration of Interdependence' was a document signed in 1975 to highlight global cooperation.
Related words
Explore more words
interdependent, symbiotic, supply chain, multilateral, oligopoly
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