Parts of speech can differ when it comes to spellings, noun forms, adjectives, and tenses. English distinguishes these things by region and differences despite the same grammar. This is why the confusion of dependant vs dependent is common even today.
There can be several writing tips between American and British English, especially in the context of dependant and dependent. So, what really is the distinction between dependant vs dependent?
Dependent is an adjective i.e. the one with an ‘e’. When meant for someone or something that relies on another individual, we use this one.
Dependant is a noun in British communication i.e. an ‘a’ right in the last three letters. It means a person who relies on another, such as a spouse or child does, for financial dependence.
Now you know well what to use between dependent or dependant.
This is how both terms, dependant or dependent, work in language keeping regional differences in mind:
Dependent for Adjective
“Dependent” serves as an adjective anywhere in the world, regardless of where you are. If you want to hint at dependency, just opt for this one and you will get the message across.
Dependant for Noun
Dependant are people who rely on someone else. For what? For support of various kinds; be it financial, legal, or any other.
This is how you learn both meanings whether it is dependant or dependent. Both can sound the same but they can mean very different things depending on the context. A lot of people are confused with the whole dependant or dependent uk fiasco. Luckily for you, we have just cleared the confusion right now.
Max, a 15-year-old Canadian, found himself in the confusion of dependant vs dependent. Upon approaching Meeting With Teacher, we clarified to him the difference between dependent vs dependant with the aforementioned examples. Now he knows how to avoid the common pitfalls and errors, such as messing up the parts of speech, style guides, and overreacting. Max is no longer confused; you can also be like him once you reach out to us for similar solutions.
There are two simple checks to clarify what you should use between the dependant vs dependent:
You can keep these rules in mind, along with which one is preferably required to avoid errors and use the most appropriate terms.
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