which rested on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which rested on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is supported by or based on another thing, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. Example: "The sculpture was impressive, with a base which rested on a solid pedestal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Before the music started, we were seated in bleachers, which rested on wheels at one end of an array of railroad tracks.

The New Yorker

I examine several instances where the seeming incoherence of the opinion instead shows its debt to imperial jurisprudence, which rested on a distinction between two bodies of law: one governing relations between "civilized" nations, the other relations between "civilized" governments and the "imperfect sovereigns" of other nations.

Duke University

He wore spectacles and had diminutive hairs which rested on his head like a shapka.

The New Yorker

In ancient times the Adriatic lay nearer Ravenna, which rested on coastal lagoons that later silted up.

Britannica

It stood like a sculpture, on an axis with our chairs, which rested on a flat terrace of blue stones.

The New York Times

Best of all was the filet mignon au poivre, which rested on a hillock of velvety whipped potatoes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

The light-sensitive pigment is contained in the outer segment, which rests on the pigment epithelium.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The musician plays the wagon while seated behind the instrument, which rests on the floor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The first step is to construct a floor, which rests on the foundation wall.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The box, which rests on a patch of scrub, looks unremarkable.

The Guardian - Film

Outside paint splotches attend this cheerful image, which rests on a yellowish ground.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "which rested on", ensure the relationship between the two elements is clear and logical to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The argument, which rested on flawed data, was quickly dismissed."

Common error

Avoid using "which rested on" when the relationship is merely coincidental rather than foundational. For instance, don't say "The book, which rested on the table, was a bestseller" if the table's presence wasn't crucial to the book's success.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which rested on" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun phrase and providing additional information about it. It indicates that the noun phrase is supported, based, or reliant upon something else, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

19%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which rested on" is a relative clause used to describe something that is supported by or based on something else. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, especially in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science. When using the phrase, ensure clarity in the supporting relationship to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "that was based on" or "that relied upon". The most authoritative sources include The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that was based on

Focuses on the foundation or basis of something, emphasizing the underlying principles or ideas.

that was supported by

Highlights the backing or upholding of something by another, suggesting reinforcement.

that relied upon

Highlights the dependence of one thing on another, emphasizing a need for support.

that was dependent on

Emphasizes the condition of being reliant on something else for its existence or function.

that hinged on

Suggests that something pivotal or crucial depended on a particular point or factor.

that was founded upon

Focuses on the establishment or origination of something, stressing a firm basis.

that was predicated on

Emphasizes that something is affirmed or based on a particular assumption or condition.

that was contingent on

Emphasizes that something is conditional and depends on the occurrence of another event.

that drew on

Indicates that something utilized or extracted resources or ideas from another source.

that stemmed from

Highlights the origin or cause of something, emphasizing its derivation from another thing.

FAQs

How can I use "which rested on" in a sentence?

Use "which rested on" to describe something that is supported by or based on another thing. For example: "The theory, which rested on extensive research, gained wide acceptance."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "which rested on"?

You can use alternatives like "that was based on", "that relied upon", or "that was dependent on" depending on the specific context.

Is "which rested on" formal or informal language?

"Which rested on" is generally considered neutral to formal language and is suitable for both academic and professional writing.

What's the difference between "which rested on" and "which depended on"?

"Which rested on" implies a physical or metaphorical support, while "which depended on" suggests a reliance for function or existence. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.