hinge on
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
For something to completely depend on one important thing — if that thing changes, everything changes.
Literal meaning: For something to turn on a hinge — a door depends on its hinge to open and close.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To be entirely determined by or dependent on a single crucial factor.
"The success of the entire project hinges on whether the client approves the budget this week."
"Everything hinges on whether we can get bipartisan support."
— Commonly used in US political commentary (e.g., The New York Times, various editions)
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Always followed by a noun or gerund. Very common in formal writing, journalism, and academic English. The metaphor is that of a door hinging on one pivot point. Not typically used in very casual conversation.
Commonly used with
decision outcome vote evidence testimony question factor
Forms
Base
hinge on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hinges on
he/she/it
Past simple
hinged on
yesterday
Past participle
hinged on
have + pp
-ing form
hinging on
continuous
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