It depends on
Hedging expression to soften claims
Use `It depends on` to provide accurate, nuanced answers while avoiding the trap of oversimplification.
En 15 secondes
- Used to show that an answer changes based on specific factors.
- Acts as a 'hedge' to avoid making inaccurate or absolute claims.
- Followed by a noun or a clause like 'what' or 'how'.
Signification
This phrase tells someone that the answer to their question isn't a simple 'yes' or 'no' because it changes based on different factors. It is like saying, 'I need more information before I can give you a final answer.'
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Planning a weekend trip
It depends on the weather; if it rains, we'll stay home.
It depends on the weather; if it rains, we'll stay home.
Discussing a project deadline
The delivery date depends on when we receive the final feedback.
The delivery date depends on when we receive the final feedback.
Texting a friend about dinner
Depends on what time I finish work! I'll text you later.
Depends on what time I finish work! I'll text you later.
Contexte culturel
This expression reflects the Western value of nuance and situational logic. It became a staple of 'hedging' in the 20th century as professional communication moved away from blunt commands toward collaborative discussion. In many English-speaking cultures, giving a nuanced 'it depends' answer is often seen as a sign of intelligence rather than weakness.
The 'It' is optional
In casual speech, you can just say 'Depends on...' and people will understand you perfectly. It sounds more relaxed!
Don't say 'Depends of'
Many people accidentally use 'of' because of their native language. In English, it is strictly 'on'. Remember: 'Depend ON a person'.
En 15 secondes
- Used to show that an answer changes based on specific factors.
- Acts as a 'hedge' to avoid making inaccurate or absolute claims.
- Followed by a noun or a clause like 'what' or 'how'.
What It Means
It depends on is your ultimate escape hatch in conversation. It means the outcome is not fixed. It relies on other circumstances to be true. Think of it as a bridge between a question and a complex reality. You are telling your friend that life isn't black and white. There are variables at play here.
How To Use It
You usually follow this phrase with a noun or a 'wh-' clause. For example, It depends on the weather or It depends on what you want. You can also use it as a standalone sentence: It depends. This is perfect when you want to look thoughtful. It shows you are considering all the angles. Just don't use it to avoid every single decision, or you'll never choose a movie!
When To Use It
Use it when someone asks a broad question. If a colleague asks, 'How long will the report take?' you say, It depends on the data. Use it at a restaurant when a waiter asks if you want dessert. It depends on the menu! It is great for managing expectations. It protects you from making promises you can't keep. It’s the verbal equivalent of a safety net.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase when a clear, binary answer is required. If your partner asks, 'Do you love me?' do NOT say It depends. That is a one-way ticket to the doghouse. Also, avoid it in emergencies. If a doctor asks if you are allergic to penicillin, give a straight answer. Using it too much in a job interview can also make you sound indecisive. Be careful not to sound like you are hiding something.
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, especially in the UK and US, directness is valued, but accuracy is also key. It depends on is a hallmark of 'hedging.' This is a linguistic strategy to sound more polite and less aggressive. It shows intellectual humility. It suggests you know that the world is complicated. It’s very common in academic and legal circles where 'absolute' statements are dangerous.
Common Variations
You will often hear people say That depends or It all depends. In very casual settings, people might just shrug and say Depends. If you want to sound more sophisticated, you can use It is contingent upon. But honestly, It depends on is the gold standard. It works everywhere from a dive bar to a boardroom.
Notes d'usage
The phrase is incredibly flexible across all registers. The main 'gotcha' is the preposition; never use 'of' or 'from'—it is always 'on'.
The 'It' is optional
In casual speech, you can just say 'Depends on...' and people will understand you perfectly. It sounds more relaxed!
Don't say 'Depends of'
Many people accidentally use 'of' because of their native language. In English, it is strictly 'on'. Remember: 'Depend ON a person'.
The 'Polite No'
Sometimes, English speakers use 'It depends' as a soft way to say 'No' without being rude. If you ask for a favor and they say 'It depends,' they might be looking for an excuse!
Exemples
6It depends on the weather; if it rains, we'll stay home.
It depends on the weather; if it rains, we'll stay home.
Linking a decision to an external condition.
The delivery date depends on when we receive the final feedback.
The delivery date depends on when we receive the final feedback.
Setting a professional boundary based on client input.
Depends on what time I finish work! I'll text you later.
Depends on what time I finish work! I'll text you later.
Shortened 'Depends' is very common in informal texts.
It depends on how well you behave at the grocery store today.
It depends on how well you behave at the grocery store today.
Using the phrase to set a condition for a reward.
Well, it depends on your definition of happiness, doesn't it?
Well, it depends on your definition of happiness, doesn't it?
A classic 'intellectual' way to pivot a conversation.
Whether we stay together depends on if you can learn to trust me.
Whether we stay together depends on if you can learn to trust me.
High emotional stakes using a conditional structure.
Teste-toi
Choose the correct preposition to complete the phrase.
The success of the party depends ___ the music and the food.
In English, the verb 'depend' is almost always paired with the preposition 'on'.
Complete the sentence with the most natural clause.
Can you come to the gym? It depends on ___.
After 'depends on', we often use 'if' or 'whether' to introduce a condition.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality of 'Depends'
Dropping the 'It'
Depends on the price.
Standard everyday use
It depends on the time.
Using 'contingent'
This is contingent upon approval.
When to say 'It depends on...'
Budgeting
...the cost of living.
Travel
...the flight schedule.
Relationships
...how we feel later.
Work
...the manager's decision.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes! It is a very common short answer when you want to signal that more information is needed before you can decide.
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or with your best friend. It is one of the most versatile phrases in English.
'Depends on' is usually followed by a noun, while 'Depends if' introduces a conditional situation. Both are grammatically correct.
'That depends' is just a variation. 'That' refers specifically to the question the other person just asked.
Absolutely. For example: Depending on the traffic, I might be late. This is a very natural way to start a sentence.
Yes, but it is often better to use more specific phrases like is determined by or is influenced by in very formal papers.
Adding 'all' adds emphasis. It suggests that there are many different factors involved, not just one.
Yes, it is a classic 'hedge.' It allows you to avoid making a definitive statement that might be proven wrong later.
No, that is incorrect. Always use on. Using 'from' is a common mistake for speakers of Romance languages.
Try adding a 'well' at the beginning: Well, it depends on... This makes you sound like you are thinking carefully about your answer.
Expressions liées
Subject to
Used in formal or legal contexts to show something relies on a condition.
Up in the air
An idiom meaning a decision has not been made yet.
Contingent upon
A very formal way to say 'depends on'.
Based on
Used to show the foundation or reason for a conclusion.
Commentaires (0)
Connectez-vous pour CommenterCommencez à apprendre les langues gratuitement
Commence Gratuitement