What are the definitions of “hinge on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Depend very much or completely.
Everything HINGES ON the results of in real trouble.
- 2Be an essential point for the development of a story.
The film HINGES ON his not being recognised when he's in disguise.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hinge on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hinge on is to depend very much or completely on something. It means that the outcome or result of a situation is determined by a specific factor or event.
What are the different verb forms of “hinge on”?
| Root Verb | hinge on |
| Third Person Singular Present | hinges on |
| Present Participle | hinging on |
| Simple Past | hinged on |
| Past Participle | hinged 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.
Example
The future of the company is hinging on the outcome of the meeting.
Example
The game hinged on the final play.
Example
The result of the election hinged on the votes from the last state.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hinge on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“hinge on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The success of the event hinged on good weather.
Example
Our vacation plans hinged on getting time off from work.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“hinge on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The success of the event hinged on good weather.
Example
Our vacation plans hinged on getting time off from work.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hinge on”?
Good things to know
Does “hinge on” have an informal or formal tone?
Hinge on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings such as academic writing, business meetings, and presentations.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “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
