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The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

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reliable

adjective

/rɪˈlaɪ ə bəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of reliable

Trusted, counted on, or depended upon to perform consistently and accurately.
"The reliable car never failed to start, even in the coldest weather."

Detailed meaning of reliable

When something is reliable, it consistently delivers the expected or desired results without fail. A reliable person is trustworthy, responsible, and capable of fulfilling commitments or obligations. Likewise, a reliable object, system, or process is proven to work effectively and consistently over time, demonstrating a high degree of dependability and consistency. Reliability implies a sense of confidence and assurance, as it instills trust that the person or thing will perform as expected and meet the established standards or requirements. Being reliable is often seen as a valuable quality, as it ensures consistency, stability, and predictability in various contexts, whether it's in personal relationships, professional settings, or the functioning of technology and machinery.

Example sentences containing reliable

1. Her reliable car never let her down on long road trips.
2. A reliable source confirmed the breaking news.
3. The old watch may not be as reliable as it once was.
4. The company's products are known for their reliable performance.
5. He's the most reliable person to call in an emergency.
6. A reliable Wi-Fi connection is essential for remote work.

History and etymology of reliable

The adjective 'reliable' finds its etymological origins in the combination of two Latin words. The first part, 're,' means 'again' or 'back,' and the second part, 'liabilis,' derives from 'liare,' which means 'to bind' or 'to tie.' When brought together, 'reliabilis' suggests something that can be 'bound back' or 'fastened again.' This idea of being firmly bound or dependable in performance is reflected in the modern sense of 'reliable.' Over time, as Latin evolved into Old French and later into Middle English, the term 'reliable' came to signify trustworthiness and the ability to be counted on or depended upon to perform consistently and accurately. The etymology underscores the concept of something being steadfast and consistent, making it a trusted and reliable choice.

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Further usage examples of reliable

1. The weather forecast isn't always reliable.
2. The babysitter is trustworthy and reliable with the children.
3. A reliable witness testified in court.
4. The GPS app on his phone is usually quite reliable.
5. The reliable mail service ensures prompt delivery.
6. His advice is always reliable in financial matters.
7. The dishwasher is a reliable appliance in their kitchen.
8. The bridge is sturdy and reliable for daily traffic.
9. A reliable partner is crucial in business negotiations.
10. The backup generator provides a reliable power source.
11. She is known for her reliable judgment in critical situations.
12. The alarm system is highly reliable for home security.
13. A reliable alarm clock ensures you wake up on time.
14. Trust a reliable brand for quality products.
15. He is a reliable friend who is always there to offer support.
16. We trust her with important tasks because she is known for being reliable.
17. The reliable internet connection allowed us to complete the online meeting without interruptions.
18. The reliable source of information provided accurate and up-to-date data.
19. The reliable babysitter ensured the children were well taken care of.
20. The reliable alarm clock never failed to wake him up on time.
21. We chose the reliable brand for our appliances because of its reputation for durability.
22. The reliable delivery service always arrives promptly with packages.
23. The reliable employee consistently meets deadlines and delivers high-quality work.
24. The reliable weather forecast helped us plan our outdoor activities with confidence.
25. The reliable security system provided peace of mind for the homeowners.