Dependant vs Dependent
Published January 19, 2023. Updated January 19, 2023.
Dependant and dependent are somewhat similar in meaning, but they function as different parts of speech. To begin, dependant is a noun and refers to “an individual who relies on another for financial support.” Dependent, on the other hand, functions as an adjective and describes “something that is determined or contingent on something else.”
Here are some definitions to help you understand the different uses of each word.
Dependant (noun)
An individual who relies on another for financial support
Examples:
I cannot claim you as a dependant on my taxes this year now that you are earning your own income.
These insane gas prices lately have almost made me become a dependant again!
Remember that a dependant is a person who relies on someone else for financial support. People can become a dependant for a number of reasons, but remember that when using this word, you are writing about the person themselves rather than describing their status.
Dependent (adjective)
Something that is determined or contingent on something else
Examples:
Your grade in this class is dependent on whether you complete the major assignments.
Honestly, my attendance at the Christmas party this year is entirely dependent on the menu.
When using dependent, remember that you can describe more than just the status of a person. Remember that this adjective can be used to describe virtually anything that is reliant, contingent, or determined by something or someone else.
Main Points
- Dependant is a noun that refers to a person.
- Dependent is an adjective that describes anything that is contingent, reliant, or determined by something or someone else.
- The main difference is that a dependant is a person, whereas dependent is an adjective describing a status.