Differences between hang it up and look up
Hang it up means to quit or retire from something, while look up means to search for information or to improve one's mood or situation.
Meanings and Definitions: hang it up vs look up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hang it up
- 1Retire, quit.
I'm getting too old for this- I'm going to HANG IT UP starting next month.
Look up
- 1Consult a reference work ( dictionary, phonebook, etc. ) for a specific piece of information..
I didn't know the correct spelling so I had to LOOK it UP in the dictionary.
- 2Improve.
The economy is LOOKING UP.
- 3Find, trace an old friend.
I LOOKED him UP when I went back to Cambridge.
Usage Examples: hang it up, look up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hang it up
Example
After 30 years of teaching, she decided to hang it up and enjoy her retirement.
Example
He hangs it up after a long and successful career in the military.
look up
Example
When I don't know a word, I look it up in the dictionary.
Example
She looks up new recipes online every week.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang it up
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up
To investigate or study a topic or subject in detail.
Example
Before writing the paper, she spent hours researching the history of the Civil War.
cheer up
To improve one's mood or make someone feel better.
Example
After a rough day at work, her friend sent her a funny video to cheer her up.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hang”
- hang back
- hang together
- hang up
- hang with
- hang about!
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Differences in hang it up vs look up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hang it up or look up?
In daily conversation, people use look up more often than hang it up. This is because look up is used in various contexts such as searching for information online, improving one's mood, or checking on someone. Hang it up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about quitting or retiring from something. So, while both phrases are used, look up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hang it up and look up
Hang it up and look up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hang it up and look up
The tone of hang it up and look up can differ based on context. Hang it up often carries a negative or resigned tone when related to quitting or retiring, while look up typically has a positive or hopeful tone, especially when referring to improving one's mood or searching for information.
