1 B2 idiomatic formal
to be founded on or supported by something
"The whole argument rests on a mistaken assumption."
“
Our hopes rest on you.
— Common public-speaking and literary formula
inseparable
rest on
B2 formal inseparable transitive
to be based on, supported by, or depend on something
In plain English
to be built on something or to depend on it
What does "rest on" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic formal
to depend on someone or something for success or outcome
"The final decision may rest on one expert opinion."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to sit or lie on top of something
Actually means
to be built on something or to depend on it
Usage tip
Often used with abstract nouns such as assumptions, evidence, principles, or responsibility. It is common in formal argument and writing.
Words that pair with "rest on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
assumption evidence principle decision responsibility proof
How to conjugate "rest on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
rest on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
rests on
he/she/it
Past simple
rested on
yesterday
Past participle
rested on
have + pp
-ing form
resting on
continuous
Hear "rest on" in the wild
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Other ways to say "rest on"
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