hinge upon
B2 formal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To completely depend on one important thing — the more formal way of saying 'hinge on'.
Literal meaning: For something to turn on a hinge — a door depends on its hinge to function.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
formal
To be entirely determined by or dependent on one critical factor (formal variant of 'hinge on').
"The fate of the negotiations hinges upon the willingness of both parties to compromise."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Largely interchangeable with 'hinge on' but preferred in formal written English, academic texts, and legal language. More common in British English than 'hinge on'.
Commonly used with
outcome verdict question decision evidence result
Forms
Base
hinge upon
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hinges upon
he/she/it
Past simple
hinged upon
yesterday
Past participle
hinged upon
have + pp
-ing form
hinging upon
continuous
Understand "hinge upon" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "hinge upon" on Looplines