word choice - What's the difference between “reliable” and “dependable”?


Do the adjectives “reliable” and “dependable” have the same exact meaning?
If not, what is the difference and when is best to use each of them?



Answer



The OED gives the following definitions of reliable and dependable:



Reliable—1. That may be relied on.


1a. Of a person, information, etc.: able to be trusted; in which reliance or confidence may be placed; trustworthy, safe, sure.


1b. orig. U.S. Of a product, service, etc.: consistently good in quality or performance; dependable.


Dependable—That may be depended on; trustworthy, reliable.



Both definitions list the other word in their definitions, with no special qualifiers attached. In addition, both words use the word trustworthy, also without qualifiers. Therefore, it is safe to say that the two are synonyms and may be equally used.


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