What does the phrasal verb “cling to” mean?

What are the definitions of “cling to”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Try to maintain beliefs, hopes, etc..

  They CLING TO their old way of thinking.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cling to”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cling to is to try to maintain or hold onto beliefs, hopes, or ideas, even when they may no longer be relevant or helpful. It can also refer to holding onto something or someone tightly, either physically or emotionally.

What are the different verb forms of “cling to”?

Root Verb	cling to
Third Person Singular Present	clings to
Present Participle	clinging to
Simple Past	clung to
Past Participle	clung to

Example

She clings to the hope that her lost cat will return.

Example

He clings to his childhood memories.

Example

They are clinging to their old traditions.

Example

She clung to her beliefs despite the challenges.

Example

He had clung to the idea of success for years.

What kind of phrasal verb is “cling to”?

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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 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 clings to her dreams.

Example

He clings to his old habits.

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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 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 clings to her dreams.

Example

He clings to his old habits.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cling to”?

Cling to life

Struggle to stay alive, especially in a difficult or life-threatening situation.

Example

The injured hiker clung to life until the rescue team arrived.

Cling to the past

Hold onto memories, traditions, or beliefs from the past, often to the detriment of personal growth or progress.

Example

He needs to stop clinging to the past and move forward with his life.

Cling to someone

Hold onto someone tightly, either physically or emotionally, often out of fear, love, or attachment.

Example

The frightened child clung to her mother during the storm.

Good things to know

Does “cling to” have an informal or formal tone?

Cling 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.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “cling to”?

Synonyms

• grasp
• grip
• retain
• preserve
• hold onto
• adhere to
• stick to
• embrace

Antonyms

• release
• abandon
• discard
• reject
• relinquish
• surrender
• let go