What are the definitions of “cling on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Hold tight.
He told me to CLING ON as the motorbike accelerated.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cling on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cling on is to hold something tightly, especially when in motion or during a difficult situation. It can be used to describe holding onto a person, object, or even an idea.
What are the different verb forms of “cling on”?
| Root Verb | cling on |
| Third Person Singular Present | clings on |
| Present Participle | clinging on |
| Simple Past | clung on |
| Past Participle | clung on |
Example
She clings on to her purse when walking through crowded areas.
Example
He clings on to the railing when climbing the stairs.
Example
The child is clinging on to her mother's hand in the busy market.
Example
During the storm, they clung on to each other for support.
Example
He had clung on to the hope of finding a better job.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cling on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“cling on” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She clung on tightly as the boat rocked.
Example
He clung on to the rope for dear life.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“cling on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She clung on tightly as the boat rocked.
Example
He clung on to the rope for dear life.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cling on”?
Good things to know
Does “cling on” have an informal or formal tone?
Cling on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or speeches, depending on the specific context.
