na-adjective
subordinate; dependent; subsidiary
Describes a relationship or position where one thing is under the control or influence of another, often in formal or organizational contexts.
子会社は親会社に従属的な立場にある。
The subsidiary is in a subordinate position to the parent company.
彼は従属的な役割に甘んじている。
He is content with a dependent role.
依存 emphasizes reliance or dependence, often with a nuance of needing support, whereas 従属的 focuses on being under authority or in a lower rank.
Compound of 従属 (subordination) + 的 (adjectival suffix). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word follows a common pattern for forming adjectival nouns from abstract concepts.