hinge on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hinge on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express that something depends on or is contingent upon something else. For example, "The success of the project will hinge on the success of the fundraising campaign."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

| Chase vote may hinge on director.

The New York Times

Everything must hinge on one night, even on one punch.

The Guardian - Sport

Did the film really hinge on one deal?

Independent

"It'll hinge on turnout.

The New Yorker

Often, the stories hinge on humiliation.

The New Yorker

But elections hinge on shorter-term concerns.

The Economist

Managerial careers can hinge on their reactions.

The New York Times - Sports

Elections often hinge on simple ideas.

The New York Times

Its divergent dreams hinge on the cash.

The New York Times - Arts

Capriati's year won't hinge on this Open.

The New York Times - Sports

Death is the hinge on which the work swings.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hinge on" to clearly indicate that the outcome or success of something is directly dependent on a specific factor. This helps to emphasize the critical nature of that factor.

Common error

While "hinge on" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very casual or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "depends on" are often more appropriate and natural in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hinge on" functions as a linking verb + preposition, indicating that the subject's outcome or status is dependent on a specific condition or factor. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in various contexts, confirming its role in establishing dependency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hinge on" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates a critical dependency. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While "hinge on" is primarily found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, it can be used across different types of writing to emphasize that a certain result "hinges on" a key factor. Remember to consider the formality of your writing context, but be assured that "hinge on" is generally a reliable choice to express dependence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depend upon

This phrase is a more formal synonym, highlighting reliance on something.

be contingent upon

A formal alternative stressing conditionality.

rely on

Indicates dependence, but can also suggest trust or confidence.

rest on

Emphasizes the foundation or basis of something.

be determined by

Focuses on the cause-and-effect relationship.

turn on

Suggests that the outcome is directly determined by a specific factor.

pivot on

Indicates a critical point that influences the direction or outcome.

devolve on

Suggests responsibility or a task falling to someone or something.

ride on

Implies high stakes and a significant impact of the outcome.

be subject to

Highlights that something is conditional and might change.

FAQs

How can I use "hinge on" in a sentence?

You can use "hinge on" to indicate that something depends critically on something else. For example, "The company's future will "hinge on" the success of their new product launch."

What can I say instead of "hinge on"?

You can use alternatives like "depend on", "rely on", or "be contingent upon" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "hinge upon" instead of "hinge on"?

Yes, "hinge upon" is a synonym for ""hinge on"" and is also grammatically correct, although "hinge on" is more commonly used in modern English.

What's the difference between "hinge on" and "based on"?

"Hinge on" implies a critical dependency for success or outcome, while "based on" suggests a foundation or starting point. The results "hinge on" the methodology, the theory is based on prior research.