Hang on Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hang on

[ˈhæŋ ɒn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Phrasal verb}

wait

To wait for a short time; to pause or delay for a moment.

Synonyms

hold on, pause, wait.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hang on	Often used in conversational speech to ask someone to be patient or to wait for a moment. Can also imply maintaining grip or perseverance in challenging situations. Hang on a minute, I need to find my keys. Just hang on, we are almost there!
wait	A general term used to ask someone to stay in a place or not do something until a particular time or event. Suitable for formal and informal contexts. Please wait here while I get the car. Can you wait until the light turns green?
hold on	Similar to 'hang on,' used in both literal and figurative senses. Common in conversations when asking someone to wait briefly or to maintain their position or grip. Hold on, I’ll transfer your call. Hold on tight; the ride might get bumpy.
pause	Used to indicate a temporary stop in action, speech, or a process. Common in both formal and informal contexts. Let's pause the movie for a bathroom break. She paused before responding to the question.

Examples of usage

Hang on a moment, I'll be right back.
Hang on, I need to grab my keys before we leave.

^{Context #2 | Phrasal verb}

continue

To continue to hold on to something; to not let go.

Synonyms

cling, grasp, hold on.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hang on	Typically used to ask someone to wait for a short period or to hold onto something tightly. Hang on a moment, I'll be right back. Make sure to hang on during the ride.
hold on	Used to ask someone to wait or to keep going despite difficulties. Similar to 'hang on' but can be more about perseverance. Hold on, this might take a while. Just hold on, you'll get through this tough time.
cling	Used when something or someone is holding onto something tightly, often out of fear or desperation. The child clung to her mother during the thunderstorm. The wet shirt clung to his back.
grasp	Used when referring to holding something firmly with the hand or understanding a concept clearly. She grasped the rope and started to climb. He couldn't grasp the main idea of the lecture.

Examples of usage

Hang on tight to the railing so you don't fall.
Hang on to your hat, it's windy outside.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

'Hang On' is also a popular song title, emphasizing themes of resilience and not giving up.
In various TV shows, characters often say 'hang on' during moments of suspense, creating an engaging cliffhanger.
A famous animated film featured a memorable scene where characters shouted 'hang on!' during a wild ride.

Psychology

The phrase encourages individuals to persist through difficulties, tapping into human resilience.
Studies suggest that strategies like 'hanging on' can promote mental toughness and coping mechanisms.
It often signifies a moment before a breakthrough, illustrating the human tendency to endure discomfort for eventual reward.

Everyday Usage

You might hear 'hang on' when someone is about to share important news, suggesting they need a moment.
It's commonly used in a casual setting, inviting someone to pause or hold on while something is sorted out.
This phrase is a common part of everyday conversation, making it relatable and easy to use.

Origin of 'hang on'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'hang on' first appeared in the English language in the mid-19th century.
It combines the literal sense of hanging with a metaphorical sense of holding on or persevering.
This phrase is often associated with the idea of maintaining one’s grip in challenging situations.

The expression 'hang on' originated from the idea of physically hanging on to something for support or stability. Over time, it evolved to also include the concept of waiting or pausing. The phrase has been commonly used in English language since the 19th century.