依存する

• Reading: いぞんする
• Romaji: izon suru
• Kanji breakdown: 依 (i) — to rely on; 存 (zon/son) — to exist, preserve
• Pronunciation: /i.zoɴ.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To depend on; to rely on. Describes a state of dependence, often with negative implications such as addiction or over-reliance.

A する verb formed from the noun 依存 (dependence). Often implies unhealthy reliance, as in 依存症 (addiction/dependency). Paired with the particle に to mark what is being depended upon. Common in discussions about technology, substances, and relationships.

Examples

1. スマホに依存する生活を変えたい。 I want to change my lifestyle of being dependent on my smartphone.
2. この国は輸入に大きく依存している。 This country depends heavily on imports.
3. 一つの収入源に依存するのは危険だ。 It's dangerous to depend on a single source of income.

Usage Guide

Context: psychology, economics, daily life

Tone: cautionary

Origin & History

Compound of 依 (i, to rely) and 存 (zon, to exist). Together they mean to rely on something for continued existence.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal