The term BE CONTINGENT (ON) can be broken down into four crossword solutions: HINGE (5 letters), DEPEND (6 letters), RELY (4 letters), and HINGED (6 letters). HINGE and HINGED are related in that they both refer to a mechanical device that is used to attach two objects together. DEPEND and RELY both refer to the idea of relying on something or someone else for support. Therefore, the term BE CONTINGENT (ON) can be summarized as being dependent on or relying on something or someone else for support.