Here are some synonyms of "depended" and an analysis of their meanings and usage:
Relied
- Similarity: "Relied" and "depended" are very similar. They both convey the idea of counting on something or someone for support, help, or a particular outcome. For example, "She depended on her friend's advice" and "She relied on her friend's advice" both mean that she looked to her friend's advice as a source of support or guidance.
- Difference: "Rely" can sometimes imply a stronger sense of trust or confidence. When you "rely" on something, it's often because you have faith in its ability to provide what you need. "Depend" can be a bit more neutral and might simply indicate a need for something without the same level of trust. For example, a plant might "depend" on sunlight for growth, but we don't usually say it "relies" on sunlight in the same way, as "rely" often implies a more conscious or purposeful trust.
Counted on
- Similarity: "Counted on" is a synonym for "depended" that emphasizes the act of expecting and relying on something. For example, "The team counted on their star player to score" is similar to "The team depended on their star player to score." In both cases, the team had an expectation that the player would contribute in a particular way.
- Difference: "Counted on" can have a more active or intentional feel. It's as if you are mentally making a calculation that something or someone will come through for you. "Depend" can be a more passive state of relying on something. For example, you might say "I always counted on my parents to pick me up from school," which shows a more conscious expectation, while "I depended on my parents for transportation" might be a more general statement about a reliance.
Leaned on
- Similarity: "Leaned on" can be used in a similar way to "depended." It means to rely on something or someone for support, either physically or metaphorically. For example, "In times of trouble, he leaned on his family for support" is similar to "In times of trouble, he depended on his family for support."
- Difference: "Leaned on" often has a more emotional or psychological connotation. It can imply a need for comfort or stability. For example, a person might "lean on" a friend's shoulder when they're crying, which shows a more physical and emotional reliance. "Depend" is a broader term and can apply to a wide range of situations where something is needed, not just for emotional support.