hinge on — to depend entirely on something; to be determined by
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: to depend entirely on something; to be determined by
Pronunciation (IPA): /hɪndʒ ɑːn/
Example Sentences
- My weekend plans hinge on whether my mother-in-law decides to visit or not.
- The company's future hinges on the launch of their new smartphone.
- Whether I pass the exam hinges on my ability to stay awake during studying.
hinge on
NOUN[/hɪndʒ ɑːn/]
to depend entirely on something; to be determined by
The championship game hinges on this final free throw.
On the fringe she starts to cringe, knowing everything will hinge on this!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase 'hinge on' derives from the literal sense of 'hinge', a device on which a door turns. Middle English adopted this term from Old French 'henge', itself from a Germanic root. The metaphorical sense developed from observing how a door's movement depends entirely upon its hinges, leading to the figurative meaning of complete dependence on a crucial element.
Breakdown
hinge (a pivoting joint or pin) + on (indicating dependence or reliance). The preposition 'on' transforms the noun 'hinge' into a phrasal verb meaning 'to depend entirely upon' or 'to turn upon as a critical factor'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My weekend plans hinge on whether my mother-in-law decides to visit or not.”
“The company's future hinges on the launch of their new smartphone.”
“Whether I pass the exam hinges on my ability to stay awake during studying.”
“The peace negotiations hinge on both sides making significant compromises.”
📚Related Words
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