What are the definitions of “hang it up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Retire, quit.
I'm getting too old for this- I'm going to HANG IT UP starting next month.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hang it up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hang it up is to retire or quit a job or activity. It is often used when someone feels they are too old or tired to continue doing something.
What are the different verb forms of “hang it up”?
| Root Verb | hang it up |
| Third Person Singular Present | hangs it up |
| Present Participle | hanging it up |
| Simple Past | hung it up |
| Past Participle | hung it up |
Example
After 30 years of teaching, she decided to hang it up and enjoy her retirement.
Example
He hangs it up after a long and successful career in the military.
Example
She is hanging it up after working as a nurse for 40 years.
Example
He hung it up and started a new chapter in his life.
Example
She had hung it up and moved to a tropical island to enjoy her retirement.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hang it up”?
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 it up” 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
After many years in the industry, he decided to hang it up.
Example
She hung it up after her last performance.
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 it up” 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
After many years in the industry, he decided to hang it up.
Example
She hung it up after her last performance.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hang it up”?
Hang up one's hat
To retire or quit a job or activity, similar to *hang it up*.
Example
After decades of service, the police officer decided to hang up his hat.
Hang up one's boots
To retire from a sports career, especially in soccer or football.
Example
The famous soccer player announced that he would hang up his boots at the end of the season.
Hang up the gloves
To retire from a boxing or fighting career.
Example
The world champion boxer decided to hang up the gloves after his final victory.
Good things to know
Does “hang it up” have an informal or formal tone?
Hang it up is an informal phrasal verb used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or written documents. Instead, more formal terms like 'retire' or 'quit' are used.
