1.
dependence, reliance
The state of relying on someone or something for support, help, or sustenance. Can be neutral or negative depending on context.
親に依存している。
I depend on my parents.
輸入に依存する割合が高い。
The proportion of dependence on imports is high.
石油への依存を減らす必要がある。
We need to reduce our dependence on oil.
2.
addiction, dependency
An unhealthy, compulsive reliance on a substance, behavior, or activity. Used in medical, psychological, and everyday contexts.
スマホ依存が問題だ。
Smartphone addiction is a problem.
アルコール依存症の治療を受けている。
I am receiving treatment for alcohol dependency.
ゲームに依存して生活リズムが崩れた。
My daily rhythm fell apart because of my addiction to gaming.
GRAMMAR: Functions as a noun and as a する verb (依存する).
PRONUNCIATION: Traditionally read as いそん, but いぞん has become the dominant pronunciation in modern Japanese.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 依存症 (addiction, dependency disorder)
- 依存度 (degree of dependence)
- 依存体質 (dependent personality/tendency)
- ~に依存する (to depend on ~)
- 相互依存 (mutual dependence, interdependence)