Differences between hang about and hang around
Hang about and hang around are very similar phrasal verbs that mean to stay in a place for no particular reason. However, hang around is more commonly used to describe spending time with friends or waiting for someone, while hang about is more often used to describe loitering or lingering in a certain area.
Meanings and Definitions: hang about vs hang around
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hang about
- 1Spend time somewhere not doing much.
They HANG ABOUT the station most of the day.
Hang around
- 1Stay in a place.
They HANG AROUND the station most of the day.
Usage Examples: hang about, hang around in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hang about
Example
On weekends, my friends and I like to hang about at the park.
Example
He hangs about the library after school, waiting for his mom to pick him up.
hang around
Example
I often hang around the park after school.
Example
She hangs around the library during her free time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang about
To stand or wait around without any apparent purpose.
Example
The security guard asked the teenagers to stop loitering outside the store.
To waste time or move slowly and aimlessly.
Example
We need to hurry up and finish this project, instead of dawdling around all day.
To spend time doing nothing or being unproductive.
Example
He spent the entire weekend idling on the couch, watching TV and eating junk food.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang around
chill out
To relax or spend time leisurely with friends.
Example
Let's chill out at the beach this weekend and enjoy the sun and surf.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hang”
- hang out
- hang back from
- hang with
- hang together
- hang about!
Phrasal Verbs with “about”
Phrasal Verbs with “around”
Differences in hang about vs hang around: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hang about or hang around?
Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but hang around is slightly more common than hang about.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hang about and hang around
Both hang about and hang around are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. They are not typically used in formal settings like business or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hang about and hang around
The tone of hang about and hang around is generally neutral, but can be influenced by the context in which they are used. They can convey a sense of boredom or aimlessness, but can also be used in a lighthearted or humorous way.
