hinged on fortune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hinged on fortune" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or outcome that is dependent on luck or chance. Example: "The success of the project was hinged on fortune, as we faced numerous unexpected challenges along the way."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But the game hinged on two things.

BBC

| Chase vote may hinge on director.

The New York Times

Much of the speculation has hinged on Tottenham's fortunes in the battle for Champions League football as they try to chase down fourth-placed Liverpool, but Lloris claimed that would not affect his commitment to the club as his main priority is Barclays Premier League football.

Independent

It hinged on a lot of desolation".

The New York Times

"But the party could not hinge on the fortunes of one man.

The Guardian

For a candidate whose fortunes hinge on one of the biggest nailbiters in Australian election contests, Cathy O'Toole has a useful day job to fall back into.

The Guardian

For too long Sri Lanka's fortunes have hinged on their captain, who struck an unbeaten 178 against Australia in last year's World Cup.

The Guardian - Sport

Murphy's fortune and a future life in clover then hinged on Riverside Theatre winning the Ryanair Chase and it looked for the world as though the dream bet would fail as Albertas Run led him over the last.

Independent

That case hinged on Firrea.

The New York Times

Yet her treatment hinged on this result.

The New York Times

The difference hinged on bankers' marital status.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "hinged on fortune", ensure the context clearly indicates that luck or chance is a significant determining factor. For example, use it when discussing uncertain outcomes or situations beyond direct control.

Common error

Avoid using "hinged on fortune" when clear causal factors are present. This phrase implies a lack of control, so ensure that luck genuinely plays a pivotal role rather than downplaying identifiable influences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hinged on fortune" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that a particular outcome or situation is critically dependent on luck or chance. Though Ludwig doesn't provide specific examples, its AI confirms this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hinged on fortune" is a grammatically sound way to express that an outcome was critically dependent on luck or chance. As Ludwig AI validates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. However, this analysis reveals that the phrase is not very common. While its neutral register makes it appropriate for news and general writing, users should ensure that the context genuinely reflects the influence of luck rather than other causal factors. Remember to consider alternatives like "depended on luck" or "relied on chance" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Depended on luck

Replaces 'hinged' with 'depended', emphasizing reliance on chance.

Relied on chance

Substitutes 'hinged' with 'relied', highlighting the element of randomness.

Turned on luck

Uses 'turned' instead of 'hinged', suggesting a pivotal role of fortune.

Rested on fate

Emphasizes the role of destiny instead of luck.

Was contingent on luck

Uses a more formal tone to express dependence on chance.

Was subject to chance

Highlights the influence of random events.

Depended on fortuitous events

Uses a more elaborate phrasing, highlighting the lucky element.

Was determined by luck

Focuses on luck as the deciding factor.

Turned on the whims of fate

Emphasizes the unpredictable nature of destiny.

Was at the mercy of fortune

Highlights vulnerability and dependence on luck.

FAQs

How can I use "hinged on fortune" in a sentence?

You can use "hinged on fortune" to describe a situation where the outcome significantly depends on luck or chance. For example: "The company's success in the new market hinged on fortune, given the unpredictable economic climate."

What are some alternatives to "hinged on fortune"?

Alternatives include "depended on luck", "relied on chance", or "turned on luck", each emphasizing reliance on unpredictable factors.

Is it correct to say something "hinges on fortune"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The verb 'hinge' implies a critical dependency, and when combined with 'fortune', it suggests reliance on luck or chance for a particular outcome.

What's the difference between "hinged on fortune" and "depended on skill"?

"Hinged on fortune" implies the outcome was primarily determined by luck or chance, whereas "depended on skill" suggests success was achieved through ability and expertise. The former emphasizes external factors, while the latter highlights internal capabilities.