reliable vs. dependable

reliable vs. dependable: What's the difference?

Reliable and dependable are synonyms, but differ slightly. In particular, dependable is often used of people and their characteristics, as in She’s a dependable earner, while reliable is sometimes used more specifically to mean that the person or thing’s achievement, accuracy, or honesty can be relied upon, as in They provided reliable information.

reliable

[ri-lahy-uh-buhl] / rɪˈlaɪ ə bəl /

adjective

that may be relied on or trusted; dependable in achievement, accuracy, honesty, etc..

reliable information.

Synonyms:

consistent , authentic , trusty

Antonyms:

deceitful , questionable , undependable

dependable

[dih-pen-duh-buhl] / dɪˈpɛn də bəl /

adjective

capable of being depended on; worthy of trust; reliable.

a dependable employee.

Synonyms:

responsible , faithful , steadfast , trusty , trustworthy