count and rely share a recorded sense, so the question is not what they mean but which one fits. count means “determine the number or amount of”. rely means “have faith or confidence in”. count is the more common of the two in everyday English.
/ˈkaʊnt/
1.v.determine the number or amount of
“Can you count the books on your shelf?”
2.v.have weight; have import, carry weight
“It does not matter much”
3.v.show consideration for; take into account
“You must consider her age”
/ɹɪˈlaɪ/
1.v.have faith or confidence in
“you can count on me to help you any time”
| count | rely | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈkaʊnt/ | /ɹɪˈlaɪ/ |
| Said | kownt | ri-LAHY |
| Syllables | 1 | 2 |
| Letters | 5 | 4 |
| Parts of speech | verb, noun | verb |
| Senses | 12 | 1 |
| How common | Core | Common |
| Synonyms | number, enumerate, numerate | count, bet, depend |
Full entry for count · Full entry for rely · More comparisons