dependent / addicted
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dependent on
To rely on someone or something; not be able to manage without outside help, support, or a specific condition.
Ein kleines Kind ist vollständig von seinen Eltern abhängig.
A small child is completely dependent on their parents.
addicted to
To be addicted to a substance such as drugs or alcohol.
Er ist seit vielen Jahren von Schmerzmitteln abhängig.
He has been addicted to painkillers for many years.
dependent on
To be determined or conditioned by a circumstance or variable.
Der Preis ist von der bestellten Menge abhängig.
The price is dependent on the quantity ordered.
The adjective 'abhängig' (dependent/addicted) is almost always used with the preposition 'von' (on/from) and the dative. This pattern ('abhängig von etwas/jemandem sein' — to be dependent on something/someone) is essential for correct usage.
Der Erfolg des Projekts ist vom Budget abhängig.
The success of the project is dependent on the budget.
'Abhängig' (dependent/addicted) comes from the verb 'abhängen' (to depend on). You can picture it literally: something 'hangs' from another thing and is therefore not free or independent.
Ob wir morgen schwimmen gehen, hängt vom Wetter ab.
Whether we go swimming tomorrow depends on the weather.
The context after 'von' (on/from) makes the meaning clear. 'Abhängig von einer Person' (dependent on a person) usually means financial or emotional dependence. 'Abhängig von einer Substanz' (addicted to a substance) means addiction. 'Abhängig von einem Faktor' (dependent on a factor) describes a condition.
Sie ist emotional sehr von ihrem Partner abhängig.
She is very emotionally dependent on her partner.
In the context of addiction, 'abhängig' (addicted) is often combined with substances such as 'von Drogen' (to drugs), 'von Alkohol' (to alcohol), or 'von Tabletten' (to pills). But it can also be used for behaviors, as in 'spielabhängig' (addicted to gambling).
Nach der Operation wurde sie von starken Schmerzmitteln abhängig.
After the operation, she became addicted to strong painkillers.
addicted
Abhängig von and süchtig nach can both describe a physical or psychological dependence on a substance. Abhängig von often sounds more neutral or technical; süchtig nach highlights the compulsive addiction more directly and with a more evaluative tone. However, both words can describe the same serious illness.
Im Arztbrief steht, dass er von Alkohol abhängig ist.
The doctor's report says that he is dependent on alcohol.
Seine Schwester sagt besorgt, dass er nach Alkohol süchtig ist.
His sister worriedly says that he is addicted to alcohol.
