rest on

USAGE SUMMARY

"rest on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing the idea that something has been placed or left to remain in a certain place or position. For example, "The money should rest on the kitchen counter until it is time to pay the bills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

These rest on two pillars.

The Economist

Two rest on logic.

The New York Times

Elbows rest on tables.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We must not rest on our laurels.

Independent

We cannot rest on our laurels, however.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You can't rest on your laurels.

The New York Times - Sports

Literature can't rest on its laurels.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Democracy rests on them.

The New Yorker

"Everything rests on it.

The New York Times

It rests on five elements.

The Economist

Resting on proof".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rest on" in academic or formal writing, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you mean physical placement or dependence. Clarity prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "rest on" when you mean a more active form of reliance or building upon. "Build upon" or "expand on" may be more appropriate when discussing ideas or progress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rest on" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating either a physical state of being supported by something or a metaphorical state of reliance or dependence. Ludwig examples show both usages, reflecting its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "rest on" is a versatile expression indicating either physical placement or dependence. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in a wide range of contexts. It appears frequently in News & Media, Wiki, and Scientific sources, demonstrating its broad applicability. When writing, ensure clarity in whether you intend a literal or metaphorical meaning. Alternatives like "depend on" or "rely on" can provide greater precision. Remember to avoid misinterpreting the metaphorical use, as Ludwig’s examples illustrate the difference. Use "build upon" or "expand on" when talking about ideas rather than "rest on".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depend on

This suggests reliance or contingency, similar to "rest on" but emphasizes reliance.

rely on

Similar to "depend on", it highlights the act of trusting or depending on something.

be based on

Implies a foundation or starting point, akin to something "resting on" a base.

hinge on

Indicates that an outcome is critically dependent on something.

be contingent on

Highlights the conditional nature of something, suggesting it "rests" on a condition.

be predicated on

This implies a logical or factual basis, similar to a concept "resting on" assumptions.

lie on

Suggests placement or position, physically or metaphorically.

be situated on

Focuses on the location or placement of something.

be supported by

Highlights the backing or justification provided by something.

take a break on

Indicates a pause on something, suggesting temporary rest.

FAQs

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

You can use "rest on" to indicate physical placement, as in "The book rests on the table", or to suggest dependence, as in "The decision rests on your shoulders".

What's a good alternative to "rest on" when implying dependence?

Alternatives include "depend on", "rely on", or "be based on" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "rest on" formal or informal?

"Rest on" is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The appropriateness depends on the specific sentence and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "rest on" and "rely on"?

"Rest on" can imply either physical placement or dependence, while "rely on" primarily suggests dependence or trust. Use "rely on" when you specifically want to emphasize trust or dependence.