What are the definitions of “hang on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Wait.
Could you HANG ON for a moment till she's free.
- 2Hold tightly.
The driver told the passengers to HANG ON as the bus pulled off.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hang on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hang on is to wait for a short time. It is often used when someone needs to pause a conversation or activity for a moment. For example, it can be used when someone is on the phone and needs to check something before continuing the conversation.
What are the different verb forms of “hang on”?
| Root Verb | hang on |
| Third Person Singular Present | hangs on |
| Present Participle | hanging on |
| Simple Past | hung on |
| Past Participle | hung on |
Example
Please hang on while I find the information you need.
Example
She hangs on for a few seconds before the call connects.
Example
He is hanging on the line while the operator transfers the call.
Example
Yesterday, they hung on for a few minutes before the meeting started.
Example
The customer had hung on for too long, so they hung up.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hang 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
“hang 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
Can you hang on for a moment?
Example
She hung on while I checked the schedule.
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 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
Can you hang on for a moment?
Example
She hung on while I checked the schedule.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hang on”?
Good things to know
Does “hang on” have an informal or formal tone?
Hang on is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations and casual settings. In more formal situations, alternatives such as 'wait' or 'hold on' may be more appropriate.
