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📕 rednote ID(小红书号)：3881567312

Hinge: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)

Meaning 1：a pivoting joint (hinge)

hinge 🔊

/hɪndʒ/

A small metal device fixed to the edge of a door, window, or lid, allowing it to swing open and closed smoothly.

Hinge diagram showing a metal door hinge connecting a door to its frame.

a pivoting joint 🔊

➕

/ə ˈpɪvətɪŋ dʒɔɪnt/

A metal device that connects two parts, allowing one to swing open and closed, commonly used on doors, windows, or lids.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：初级

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Old English 'henge', meaning to hang or turn.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a hinge: it's where things swing or depend, both physically and metaphorically.

📖 Example

The old wooden door squeaked loudly because the hinge needed some oil. 🔊 The old wooden door squeaked loudly because the hinge needed some oil.

🔗 Collocations

door hinge – a hinge specifically designed for doors

hinge pin – the central rod in a hinge that allows rotation

loose hinge – a hinge that is not securely attached, causing wobbling

🔄 Synonyms

pivot (n.) – a central point on which something turns or balances

joint (n.) – a structure where two parts are joined, allowing movement

swivel (n.) – a device that allows something to rotate freely

🚫 Antonyms

fixed connection (n.) – a joint that does not allow movement

🌱 Derivatives

hinged (adj.) – fitted with a hinge or hinges

hingeless (adj.) – without a hinge

📖 Cultural Story

Originating from Old English 'henge', related to suspension. In modern usage, it metaphorically denotes critical dependency, as in 'the plan hinges on the weather'.

Meaning 2：depend entirely on (hinge)

hinge 🔊

/hɪndʒ/

(hinge on) To depend completely on something; for the success or outcome of a situation to be decided by one key factor.

Hinge concept illustration showing plans depending on a smartphone's weather forecast.

depend entirely on 🔊

➕

/dɪˈpɛnd ɪnˈtaɪərli ɒn/

For something to be completely dependent on a particular factor; the success or outcome is determined by that key element.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：中级

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example

Our plan for a weekend camping trip hinges on the weather forecast being clear. 🔊 Our plan for a weekend camping trip hinges on the weather forecast being clear.

🔗 Collocations

hinge on – to depend critically on something

hinge upon – a more formal variant of 'hinge on'

the hinge point – the critical factor on which something depends

🔄 Synonyms

depend on (v.) – to rely on something for support or outcome

rely on (v.) – to trust or depend on someone or something

be contingent on (v.) – to be conditional or dependent on something

🚫 Antonyms

be independent of (v.) – not relying on or affected by something

be irrelevant to (v.) – having no connection or dependence on