depender - Verb
/dpeˈndeɾ/
The verb depender in Spanish signifies a reliance or dependence on something or someone. It is used broadly in both written and oral contexts, often implying that one thing is contingent on another. The frequency of use is relatively high in everyday speech, especially in discussions involving responsibilities, conditions, or relationships.
La decisión dependerá de los resultados de la encuesta.
The decision will depend on the results of the survey.
No debes depender siempre de los demás.
You shouldn't always depend on others.
El clima en la playa dependerá de la temporada.
The weather at the beach will depend on the season.
In addition to its primary meaning, depender is also used in several idiomatic expressions which convey ideas of reliance and causality.
Depender de las circunstancias
To depend on the circumstances.
"Nuestro viaje va a depender de las circunstancias."
"Our trip is going to depend on the circumstances."
Depender de alguien
To depend on someone.
"Ella siempre ha tenido que depender de su madre."
"She has always had to depend on her mother."
Depender del tiempo
To depend on the weather.
"La reunión al aire libre depende del tiempo."
"The outdoor meeting depends on the weather."
Depender de la suerte
To depend on luck.
"A veces, los resultados pueden depender de la suerte."
"Sometimes, the results can depend on luck."
The word depender comes from the Latin dependere, which is formed by the prefix "de-" meaning "down from" or "about" and "pendere," meaning "to hang." Thus, it carries the connotation of hanging down from or being contingent upon something.
Synonyms: - Confiar (to trust) - Requerir (to require) - Basarse en (to be based on)
Antonyms: - Independizarse (to become independent) - Autonomizar (to make autonomous)
This comprehensive overview of depender covers its linguistic aspects, usage, idiomatic expressions, etymology, as well as synonyms and antonyms, providing a well-rounded insight into this versatile verb in the Spanish language.