resting on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "resting on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate reliance or dependence on something, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The success of the project is resting on the team's ability to collaborate effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is what everything is resting on -- literally.

Huffington Post

No one is resting on their laurels".

The New York Times

Her head hung to one side, resting on her shoulder.

The New Yorker

Resting on his laurels in one of his several homes?

The New York Times

Resting on proof".

The New York Times - Arts

A knight is resting on a rock.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Commissioners have much resting on their shoulders.

The Guardian

"There is no resting on your laurels.

The New York Times - Sports

"Everything is resting on Windows Phone 8.

The New York Times - Tech

7. Centipedes resting on their laurels.

The New Yorker

But they aren't resting on their laurels.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "resting on" metaphorically, ensure the supporting element is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "resting on" when a weaker form of support or influence is intended. Consider alternatives like "influenced by" or "related to" if the dependence is not critical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "resting on" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often indicating either physical support or metaphorical reliance. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English. It establishes a relationship between two elements, one providing a base or source of dependence for the other.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "resting on" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate either physical support or, more commonly, metaphorical reliance or dependence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's frequently found in news and media contexts, conveying a sense of critical dependence or foundational support. While the phrase is suitable for neutral registers, it can add emphasis in more formal settings. To ensure clarity, define the supporting element precisely and consider alternatives like "depending on" or "relying on" if the context implies a different level of dependence. Avoiding overuse of this phrase for situations with weaker levels of influence or a support is important for writing precisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relying upon

Implies a strong dependence or trust in something.

depending on

Suggests that the outcome is contingent on something else.

contingent upon

Highlights the conditional nature of a situation.

based upon

Focuses on the foundation or grounds for something.

predicated on

Emphasizes that something is founded or established on a particular basis.

hinging on

Indicates that the outcome is critically dependent on a single point.

supported by

Highlights the backing or reinforcement provided by something.

built on

Suggests a progressive development that relies on a foundation.

grounded in

Implies a deep connection to a fundamental principle or reality.

leaning on

Suggests a less formal reliance for support or assistance.

FAQs

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

The phrase "resting on" can be used to describe physical support, as in "The book was resting on the table", or to indicate dependence or reliance, as in "The company's success is resting on its new product launch".

What's the difference between "resting on" and "relying on"?

"Resting on" often implies a physical or metaphorical foundation, while "relying on" emphasizes trust or dependence for support or assistance. "The building is resting on a solid foundation" versus "We are relying on your expertise".

What are some alternatives to using "resting on"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "depending on", "based on", "contingent upon" or "hinging on". Each alternative changes the emphasis slightly.

Is it correct to say "everything is resting on" something?

Yes, it is a grammatically correct and common way to express that the outcome or success of something is heavily dependent on a particular factor. For example, "Everything is resting on the success of this negotiation".