Phrasal verbs "hinge on" vs "key on"

Differences between hinge on and key on

Hinge on and key on are similar in that they both refer to something being dependent on or influenced by another thing. However, hinge on implies a greater degree of importance or significance, while key on suggests a more direct or specific connection.

Meanings and Definitions: hinge on vs key on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hinge on

• 1. Depend very much or completely.

  Everything HINGES ON the results of in real trouble.

• 2. Be an essential point for the development of a story.

  The film HINGES ON his not being recognised when he's in disguise.

Key on

• 1. Target, focus on ( sport ).

  We will KEY ON the opposing team's lack of skills on defense.

Usage Examples: hinge on, key on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hinge on

Example

The success of the project hinges on the team's ability to work together.

Example

Her decision hinges on the job offer she receives.

key on

Example

The coach told the players to key on the other team's weak defense.

Example

She keys on her opponent's weaknesses during the game.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hinge on

depend on

To rely on or be influenced by something else.

Example

The success of the project depends on the team's ability to work together effectively.

rest on

To be based on or determined by something else.

Example

The outcome of the trial rests on the evidence presented by the prosecution and defense.

turn on

To be determined or influenced by a particular factor or event.

Example

The election could turn on the candidate's stance on immigration policy.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Key on

focus on

To concentrate on or give special attention to a particular aspect or detail.

Example

The presentation will focus on the company's new product line.

center on

To revolve around or be based on a particular topic or theme.

Example

The discussion will center on the impact of social media on mental health.

zero in on

To direct attention or focus towards a specific target or objective.

Example

The detective was able to zero in on the suspect's location using GPS tracking.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hinge”

• hinge upon

Phrasal Verbs with “key”

• key to
• key in
• key in on
• key up
• key down

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

• bear on
• turn on
• get it on
• put on
• pass on

Differences in hinge on vs key on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hinge on or key on?

Both hinge on and key on are less common phrasal verbs and are not used as frequently as other more common phrasal verbs. However, hinge on is slightly more common than key on.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hinge on and key on

Both hinge on and key on are formal expressions that are suitable for use in academic or professional contexts. They are not typically used in casual conversations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hinge on and key on

The tone of hinge on and key on can differ based on context. Hinge on often carries a more serious or urgent tone when referring to something that is crucial or essential, while key on has a more focused or targeted tone, especially when referring to a specific aspect or detail.

hinge on & key on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hinge on

Synonyms

• depend on
• rely on
• rest on
• be contingent on
• be conditional on
• be determined by
• be influenced by
• be subject to

Antonyms

• be independent of
• be unrelated to
• be unaffected by
• be autonomous
• be self-reliant
• be self-sufficient

Key on

Synonyms

• target
• emphasize
• highlight
• focus on
• concentrate on
• pay attention to

Antonyms

• ignore
• overlook
• neglect
• disregard
• downplay
• underestimate