hinge

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/hɪndʒ/
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A word for a movable joint such as a door hinge, and a verb meaning to depend on an important condition.
Practice using hinge in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • The door hinge squeaked loudly.
  • The box lid turns on a small metal hinge.
  • The outcome does not hinge on luck alone.
  • A rusty hinge made the gate hard to open.
  • The case may hinge on one witness.

Similar words

flexible joint
swivel
be based on
strap hinge
rest on
rely on
turn on
pivot
depend on
butt hinge

Meanings

Movable joint for opening

noun
technical
neutral
A movable joint that attaches a door, lid, gate, or other part and lets it swing or turn.

Examples

  • The door hinge squeaked loudly.
  • She tightened the screws on the cabinet hinge.
  • A rusty hinge made the gate hard to open.
  • The laptop hinge broke after years of use.
  • The box lid turns on a small metal hinge.

Similar words

joint
pivot
swivel
butt hinge
strap hinge
flexible joint

Depend on something important

verb
everyday
neutral
To depend on one important factor, condition, decision, or fact.

Examples

  • The case may hinge on one witness.
  • Success will hinge on careful planning.
  • The deal hinges on final approval from the board.
  • Their argument hinged on a single assumption.
  • The outcome does not hinge on luck alone.

Similar words

depend on
rest on
turn on
be based on
rely on
come down to

Etymology

From Middle English forms related to hanging or being attached so that something can turn. The figurative sense comes from the idea that a result turns around one central point.

FAQ

What does hinge mean?

As a noun, it is a movable joint on a door or lid. As a verb in hinge on, it means depend on.

What does hinge on mean?

It means depend on an important factor, condition, decision, or fact.

What is the plural of hinge?

The plural is hinges.

Is hinge the same as henge?

No. Hinge is a joint or a verb meaning depend on. Henge refers to ancient circular monuments.

Can you say hinge upon?

Yes, but hinge on is more common in modern English.

What is a synonym for hinge?

For the object, synonyms include joint and pivot. For the verb, synonyms include depend on and rest on.

How do you use hinge in a sentence?

For example: The case may hinge on one witness.

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