Differences between hang onto and hold onto

Hang onto and hold onto have similar meanings, but hang onto is more commonly used to refer to keeping a physical object or maintaining a grip on something, while hold onto can also be used figuratively to mean keeping a belief or idea.

Meanings and Definitions: hang onto vs hold onto

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hang onto

1Keep.
I HUNG ONTO my old records even though I never played them.

Hold onto

1Keep as long as possible.
It tried to HOLD ONTO my cash during the holiday so I could buy some duty free stuff on the way back.
2Hold tightly.
The mother HELD ONTO her daughter's hand to keep together in the crowd.

Usage Examples: hang onto, hold onto in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hang onto

Example

She decided to hang onto her childhood toys.

Example

He hangs onto his old clothes, even though they don't fit anymore.

hold onto

Example

She always holds onto her purse when walking in crowded areas.

Example

He holds onto his old toys for sentimental reasons.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hang onto

keep hold of

To maintain a grip on something or keep it in one's possession.

Example

She managed to keep hold of the rope and climb to the top of the mountain.

cling onto

To hold onto something tightly or persistently, often out of fear or desperation.

Example

The child clung onto his mother's leg, afraid of the barking dog.

retain possession of

To keep something in one's possession or ownership.

Example

He was determined to retain possession of the antique watch, despite the high price offered by the collector.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold onto

stick to one's guns

To maintain one's position or opinion, even in the face of opposition or criticism.

Example

Despite the backlash, she decided to stick to her guns and continue advocating for the cause.

stand firm

To remain steadfast or resolute in one's beliefs or decisions.

Example

The CEO stood firm in his decision to invest in renewable energy, despite the initial cost.

persevere with

To continue with something despite difficulties or obstacles.

Example

She decided to persevere with her studies, even though she found the subject challenging.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hang”

Phrasal Verbs with “hold”

Phrasal Verbs with “onto”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: hang onto or hold onto?

Both hang onto and hold onto are commonly used in everyday conversation, but hang onto is more frequently used when referring to physical objects or maintaining a grip on something. Hold onto is used more often in figurative contexts, such as holding onto a belief or idea.

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

Both hang onto and hold onto are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, hold onto can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts to convey determination or persistence.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hang onto and hold onto

The tone of hang onto and hold onto can differ based on context. Hang onto often carries a sense of urgency or necessity, especially when referring to physical objects. Hold onto can convey determination or persistence, especially when referring to beliefs or ideas.

hang onto & hold onto: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hang onto

Synonyms

Antonyms

discard
abandon
release
forget
throw away
let go
dispose of

Hold onto

Synonyms

Antonyms