Phrasal verbs "hang on" vs "hold on"

Differences between hang on and hold on

Hang on and hold on are very similar in meaning and usage. They both mean to wait or pause for a short time. However, hang on is more commonly used in British English, while hold on is more common in American English.

Meanings and Definitions: hang on vs hold on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hang on

• 1. Wait.

  Could you HANG ON for a moment till she's free.

• 2. Hold tightly.

  The driver told the passengers to HANG ON as the bus pulled off.

Hold on

• 1. Wait.

  Could you HOLD ON for a minute; she'll be free in a moment.

• 2. To hold tightly.

  We HELD ON as the bus started to move.

Usage Examples: hang on, hold on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hang on

Example

Please hang on while I find the information you need.

Example

She hangs on for a few seconds before the call connects.

hold on

Example

Please hold on while I find the document you need.

Example

She holds on to the railing when going down the stairs.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang on

wait a moment

To pause or delay an activity or conversation for a short time.

Example

Can you wait a moment while I grab my coat?

hold the line

To stay on the phone and wait for someone to return to the call.

Example

Please hold the line while I transfer you to the customer service department.

stay put

To remain in one place and not move until further notice.

Example

I'm going to run to the store. Can you stay put until I get back?

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on

just a second

To ask someone to wait for a very short amount of time.

Example

Can you just hold on a second while I finish this email?

hang tight

To wait patiently and hold on to something or someone for support.

Example

I know it's tough, but hang tight and we'll get through this together.

be patient

To wait calmly and without complaint for something to happen.

Example

You'll need to be patient while we process your application. It may take a few days.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hang”

• hang back
• hang up
• hang around
• hang in there
• hang about!

Phrasal Verbs with “hold”

• hold with
• hold back from
• hold down
• hold on to
• hold back

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

• settle on
• roll on
• border on
• come on
• lead on

Differences in hang on vs hold on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hang on or hold on?

Both hang on and hold on are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, hold on is slightly more common in American English, while hang on is more common in British English.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hang on and hold on

Both hang on and hold on are informal phrases that 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 on and hold on

The tone of hang on and hold on is generally neutral and polite. They are often used when someone needs to pause a conversation or activity briefly.

hang on & hold on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hang on

Synonyms

• wait
• pause
• delay
• grip
• cling
• grasp
• hold on
• hesitate

Antonyms

• hurry
• rush
• release
• ignore
• proceed
• continue
• let go

Hold on

Synonyms

• wait
• pause
• grip
• grasp
• cling
• adhere
• hang on
• cling to

Antonyms

• release
• surrender
• abandon
• quit
• relinquish
• let go
• give up