Meaning
Relying on someone or something.
Cultural Background
In many Bengali households, 'নির্ভর করা' is a sign of respect. Younger generations rely on the wisdom of elders, and this is not seen as a lack of independence but as 'shroddha' (respect). The concept of 'Atmanirbhar' (self-reliant) became a huge cultural and political movement in Bengal during the British Raj, popularized by leaders who wanted to stop relying on foreign goods. In Sufi and Baul traditions of Bengal, 'নির্ভর করা' on the 'Murshid' (spiritual guide) or the Divine is a central theme of their songs. In cities like Kolkata or Dhaka, the phrase is now frequently used in the context of 'App-dependence' (food delivery, ride-sharing), reflecting a shift from human to technological reliance.
The Genitive Key
Always check if the word before 'ওপর' has an '-er' or '-r' ending. It's 'Amar' (my), not 'Ami' (I).
Physical vs. Abstract
Don't use this when leaning on a table! You'll sound like you're having a financial crisis with the furniture.
Meaning
Relying on someone or something.
The Genitive Key
Always check if the word before 'ওপর' has an '-er' or '-r' ending. It's 'Amar' (my), not 'Ami' (I).
Physical vs. Abstract
Don't use this when leaning on a table! You'll sound like you're having a financial crisis with the furniture.
Politeness
Using 'নির্ভর করা' in a request makes it sound more serious and respectful.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'নির্ভর করা' and the necessary postposition.
আমি আমার বাবার _______ _______। (I rely on my father.)
The correct structure is 'Genitive + ওপর + নির্ভর করি'.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the correct sentence:
Success (সাফল্য) is the subject, and it depends on (নির্ভর করে) effort (চেষ্টার ওপর).
Match the situation to the correct Bengali sentence.
Situation: You are telling a friend that the picnic depends on the rain.
The picnic is the thing that is uncertain, so it 'depends on' the rain.
Complete the dialogue.
A: তুমি কি একা এই কাজটি করতে পারবে? B: না, আমি তোমার _______ _______।
'ওপর নির্ভর করছি' (I am relying on you) is the most logical response to needing help.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Reliance vs. Trust
Practice Bank
4 exercisesআমি আমার বাবার _______ _______। (I rely on my father.)
The correct structure is 'Genitive + ওপর + নির্ভর করি'.
Choose the correct sentence:
Success (সাফল্য) is the subject, and it depends on (নির্ভর করে) effort (চেষ্টার ওপর).
Situation: You are telling a friend that the picnic depends on the rain.
The picnic is the thing that is uncertain, so it 'depends on' the rain.
A: তুমি কি একা এই কাজটি করতে পারবে? B: না, আমি তোমার _______ _______।
'ওপর নির্ভর করছি' (I am relying on you) is the most logical response to needing help.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes! For example, 'পাখিটি ডালের ওপর নির্ভর করছে' (The bird is relying on the branch).
It is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
The closest opposite is 'স্বাধীন হওয়া' (to be independent) or 'নির্ভর না করা' (to not rely).
Yes, in 99% of cases, the object of reliance must be followed by 'ওপর'.
Yes, 'নির্ভর হওয়া' means 'to become dependent', while 'নির্ভর করা' is the act of relying.
Almost. 'ভরসা করা' is more about trust and hope, while 'নির্ভর করা' is more about necessity.
Use 'নির্ভরযোগ্য' (Nirbhorjogyo).
Yes, 'এই তথ্যটির ওপর নির্ভর করা যায়' (This data can be relied upon).
Very often! It's a favorite in romantic and spiritual Bengali songs.
The noun is 'নির্ভরতা' (Nirbhorshilota).
Related Phrases
ভরসা করা
similarTo trust or place hope in someone.
অবলম্বন করা
specialized formTo adopt or use as a support.
বিশ্বাস করা
similarTo believe or trust.
আত্মনির্ভরশীল
builds onSelf-reliant.
পরনির্ভরশীল
contrastDependent on others.
