What are the definitions of “cling on to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Try to keep something.
They CLUNG ON TO power despite the protests.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cling on to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cling on to is to try to keep something, such as a position, possession, or relationship, especially when it is difficult to do so. It often implies a sense of desperation or determination.
What are the different verb forms of “cling on to”?
| Root Verb | cling on to |
| Third Person Singular Present | clings on to |
| Present Participle | clinging on to |
| Simple Past | clung on to |
| Past Participle | clung on to |
Example
She clings on to her old memories.
Example
He clings on to his job despite the challenges.
Example
They are clinging on to their hopes for a better future.
Example
She clung on to her beliefs, even when others doubted her.
Example
He had clung on to the idea of reconciliation for years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cling on to”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“cling on to” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She clung on to her dreams.
Example
He clung on to his position in the company.
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 to” 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 to her dreams.
Example
He clung on to his position in the company.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cling on to”?
To try to keep a relationship going, even when it is struggling or facing difficulties.
Example
She clung on to the relationship, even though it was clear they were growing apart.
Good things to know
Does “cling on to” have an informal or formal tone?
Cling on to 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 discussions.
