There is often confusion over the words 'dependent' and 'dependant'.
Dependant
A dependant is person who is dependent on someone else. (For example, a child is
dependent on its parents. Therefore, a child is a dependant of its
parents.)
Example:
 All embassy
staff and their dependants must be at the airport by 6 o'clock. 
(In this example, the word 'dependants' means spouses and children.)
Dependent
The word "dependent" is an adjective
meaning 'contingent on', 'relying on', 'supported
by' or 'addicted to'. The word 'dependant' refers to a
person and is a noun.
Example:
I am
dependent on the weather for a safe crossing.
(reliant on the weather)
Select the correct version:
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IN AMERICAN ENGLISH, DEPENDENT IS BOTH ADJECTIVE AND NOUN
 Two of my
dependents became dependent on heroin. 
(should be ...my dependants...)
Two of my
dependents became dependent on heroin. 
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Easily Confused Words
