Hinge Upon
Definition:
The phrase "hinge upon" means that something depends on or is determined by something else. If one thing hinges upon another, it cannot happen or be true without that other thing.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "hinge upon" when you want to express that the outcome of a situation relies on a particular factor. It is often used in formal or serious contexts.
Examples:
1. "The success of the project hinges upon getting enough funding."
(This means the project will only be successful if they receive enough money.)
Advanced Usage:
In more complex sentences, you might say, "The future of the negotiations hinges upon mutual trust and understanding." This indicates that trust and understanding are crucial for the negotiations to proceed.
Word Variants:
- Hinge (noun): A hinge is a physical object that connects two things, allowing them to move (like a door).
- Hinging (verb): The present participle form can be used in phrases, like "hinging on clarity in communication."
Different Meanings:
- Hinge (noun): As mentioned, it can refer to a physical device that allows movement, like on a door.
Synonyms:
- Depend on - Rely on - Be contingent upon - Be determined by
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "hinge upon" itself is a phrase, you might encounter related phrases like "rest on" or "ride on," which convey a similar meaning. For example:
- "His future rests on his ability to perform well in the interview."
- "Your success rides on your preparation for the exam."
Summary:
To sum up, "hinge upon" is a useful phrase to show that something is contingent on or dependent on something else.