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."
inseparable
hinge upon
B2 formal inseparable transitive
To depend entirely on one key factor or condition; the more formal variant of 'hinge on'.
In plain English
To completely depend on one important thing — the more formal way of saying 'hinge on'.
What does "hinge upon" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
For something to turn on a hinge — a door depends on its hinge to function.
Actually means
To completely depend on one important thing — the more formal way of saying 'hinge on'.
Usage tip
Largely interchangeable with 'hinge on' but preferred in formal written English, academic texts, and legal language. More common in British English than 'hinge on'.
Words that pair with "hinge upon"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
outcome verdict question decision evidence result
How to conjugate "hinge upon"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "hinge upon" in the wild
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