Korean Dictionary
How to say "Dependence / Relying on Someone" in Korean
“Dependence / Relying on Someone” in Korean is 의지하다 (pronounced "Uijihada").
의지하다
Uijihada
Usage & Context
의지하다 means to rely on or lean on someone emotionally or physically. In Korean relationships, expressing that you depend on someone is considered a sign of trust and intimacy. It is commonly used to describe emotional support within close relationships.
Example Sentence
힘들 때 너한테 의지할 수 있어서 다행이야.
I'm glad I can rely on you when things are tough.
How to use 의지하다 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Dependence / Relying on Someone” is 의지하다, romanized as Uijihada.
Usage tip
Relationship words can sound too direct if the social context is wrong. Check the age, closeness, and formality before using it.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 의지하다.
Pronunciation Guide
의 (ui) sounds like 'wee' in 'week' but with a slight 'uh' sound before it, like 'uh-wee'. 지 (ji) sounds like 'jee' in 'jeep'. 하 (ha) sounds like 'ha' in 'haha'. 다 (da) sounds like 'da' in 'data'. The stress is generally even across syllables.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
의지해요
Uijihayo
Standard polite form, commonly used in daily conversation.
Casual (반말)
의지해
Uijihae
Used with close friends or family.
More Example Sentences
Talking about a parent's unwavering support.
엄마는 항상 저에게 의지할 수 있는 버팀목이었어요.
Mom was always a pillar I could lean on.
Describing mutual support in a challenging situation.
새로운 환경에 적응하기 위해 서로에게 의지했어요.
We relied on each other to adapt to the new environment.
Giving general advice about friendship and support.
힘든 시기에는 친구들에게 의지하는 것이 중요해요.
It's important to rely on friends during tough times.
Cultural Context
In Korean culture, expressing '의지하다' (to rely on) within close relationships (family, close friends, partners) is often seen as a sign of deep trust and intimacy, rather than weakness. It reflects the value placed on interdependence and collective well-being. You'll frequently hear characters in K-dramas openly express their need to 의지하다 on others, reinforcing emotional bonds and showing vulnerability.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 의지하다 against age, closeness, and politeness rules, because a literal English match often misses the social meaning.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
서로 의지하다
to rely on each other
누구에게 의지하다
to rely on someone
의지할 곳
a place/person to rely on
Related Expressions
기대다
Gidaeda
to lean on (physically or emotionally)
믿다
Mitda
to trust, to believe
도움받다
Doumbatda
to receive help
자립하다
Jariphada
to be independent (antonym)
More Relationships Words
Master Korean with AI-Powered Learning
Practice Dependence / Relying on Someone and 10,000+ words with native pronunciation and AI conversation.
