Definition

Verb: - To be contingent on; to depend completely on a particular factor, condition, or event for a specific outcome or decision. It implies that one thing is critically determined by another.

Usage

The verb "hinge upon" is used to describe a situation where the success, truth, or existence of something is entirely dependent on another element. It is a formal and strong way to express dependency. - It is typically followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund (the -ing form of a verb). - Common structures: "Something hinges upon something else."

Examples

• The success of the entire project hinges upon securing final approval from the board.
• Whether we go on the trip hinges upon the weather forecast.
• The defendant's case hinges upon the testimony of a single witness.
• The company's future hinges upon this next product launch.

Advanced Usage

• "to hinge entirely/solely/critically upon": These adverbs intensify the degree of dependency.
  • The peace agreement hinges entirely upon the ceasefire holding.
• Used in passive constructions, though less common.
  • The final decision is hinged upon the committee's report.

Variants and Related Words

• Hinge on: This is a more common variant with identical meaning and usage.
  • Everything hinges on his answer.
• Hinge (verb): The base form, meaning to attach by or fit with a hinge. Figuratively, it can also mean to depend, though "hinge on/upon" is the standard phrasal form for this meaning.

Synonyms

• Depend on: To be influenced or decided by.
• Rest on: To be based on or grounded in.
• Turn on: To have as a central or crucial factor.
• Be contingent on: To be conditional upon.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Hang on: To depend on (similar, but often less formal).
  • A lot hangs on the results of these tests.

Related Idioms

• Pivot on: To depend critically on a central point.
  • The argument pivots on a key piece of evidence.

Verb

1. be contingent on
   • The outcomes rides on the results of the election
   • Your grade will depends on your homework