1.
to count on; to rely on; to depend on; to expect something from someone or something
To place one's expectations or reliance on someone or something. Often used in the negative or with a warning nuance, suggesting that relying on it may lead to disappointment.
彼を当てにしないほうがいい。
You'd better not count on him.
ボーナスを当てにして旅行を計画した。
I planned a trip counting on my bonus.
天気予報は当てにならないこともある。
Weather forecasts can sometimes be unreliable.
親の援助を当てにしていては自立できない。
You can't become independent if you keep relying on your parents' support.
当て means "aim" or "expectation," and 当てにする means to make something one's expectation or reliance. The negative form 当てにならない (unreliable) is extremely common and is one of the most natural ways to say something is unreliable in Japanese.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 〜を当てにする: to count on ~
- 当てにならない: unreliable; can't be counted on
- 当てにしないほうがいい: you'd better not count on it
- 当てにしていた: was counting on it
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 頼りにする: to rely on; to depend on — warmer nuance; implies trust and emotional dependence
- 期待する: to expect; to look forward to — more neutral; focuses on anticipation
- 信用する: to trust — focuses on believing someone is trustworthy