What are the definitions of “hang around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Stay in a place.
They HANG AROUND the station most of the day.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hang around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hang around is to stay in a place for a period of time, often without a specific purpose or reason. It can be used to describe people who spend time in a certain area or with a particular group of people.
What are the different verb forms of “hang around”?
| Root Verb | hang around |
| Third Person Singular Present | hangs around |
| Present Participle | hanging around |
| Simple Past | hung around |
| Past Participle | hung around |
Example
I often hang around the park after school.
Example
She hangs around the library during her free time.
Example
He is hanging around the coffee shop waiting for his friends.
Example
Yesterday, they hung around the mall for hours.
Example
We have hung around this place many times before.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hang around”?
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
“hang around” 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
The kids hang around the playground after school.
Example
He hangs around the neighborhood with his friends.
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
“hang around” 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
The kids hang around the playground after school.
Example
He hangs around the neighborhood with his friends.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hang around”?
Good things to know
Does “hang around” have an informal or formal tone?
Hang around is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'wait,' 'linger,' or 'spend time' may be more appropriate.
