Top 10 grammar tips: dependent and dependant

In Australian and New Zealand spelling, dependant is a noun and means someone who depends on support from others. This support often has a financial component.

The child is a dependant.

Dependent is an adjective and means relying on.

The outcome is dependent on the test results.

The usual preposition to use with dependent is on, not of.

The success of the project is dependent on their goodwill.

American spelling uses dependent for both meanings. Much simpler!

 

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