Hinge: meaning, definitions and examples

Primarily used when talking about door mechanisms or anything that swings open or closed, such as gates or lids.

• The door wouldn't close properly because the hinge was rusty.
• He fixed the broken hinge on the toolbox.

Commonly used to refer to the connection between two bones in the body, but can also describe any place where two parts meet and move together.

• He injured his knee joint while playing football.
• The carpenter made sure the joints of the table were secure.

Usually refers to something that rotates or turns around a fixed point, both in physical and metaphorical contexts.

• The basketball player used his pivot foot to avoid the defender.
• The company's strategy pivoted towards online sales during the pandemic.

Often used in a more formal or technical sense when discussing the way two parts are connected or the way joints move, commonly in anatomy or machinery.

• The articulation of the robot's arm allows for precise movements.
• The doctor explained the articulation of the knee joint.

A hinge is often used to describe a crucial point or a pivotal element that something depends on or revolves around.

• The door's ability to swing freely depends on the condition of the hinge.
• The success of the project hinges on our ability to meet the deadline.

Center refers to the middle point or central area of something, often used in geographical, organizational, or contextual settings.

• The statue stands in the center of the town square.
• He is the center of attention at every party.

Core implies the most fundamental, essential part of something, often used in discussions about beliefs, principles, or key components.

• The core of the apple was surprisingly sweet.
• At the core of the company's philosophy lies a commitment to innovation.

Heart is used metaphorically to describe the innermost, most vital part of something, often conveying emotional or central importance.

• She is the heart of our team, always bringing energy and positivity.
• At the heart of the matter lies a simple question of trust.

Typically used when referring to a movable mechanism that allows an object to swing, such as a door. Can also describe a central or crucial point.

• The door wouldn't open because the hinge was rusted.
• The success of the plan hinges on everyone participating.

Used when one item is fastened or joined to another, often temporarily. Commonly refers to physical connections or adding documents to an email.

• Please attach the file to your email before sending.
• I attached the poster to the wall with tape.

Used for establishing a link or relationship between two or more elements, items, or people. Can be physical or metaphorical in nature.

• The bridge connects the two islands.
• We need to connect these wires to get the machine working.
• He finds it hard to connect with new people.

Refers to linking or bringing multiple items or people together to form a single unit or group. Can be physical in the case of objects or social when referring to participation in activities.

• They decided to join the tables to make a longer one.
• She will join the hike this Saturday.