hang on to
Third Person
hangs on to
Present Participle
hanging on to
Past Tense
hung on to
Past Participle
hung on to
1
to keep something with effort or determination
transitive
- Despite the company's changes, he is determined to hang on to his job.
- The team managed to hang on to their lead until the final whistle blew.
- The athlete fought hard to hang on to his title as the world champion.
- He is determined to hang on to his job despite the company's financial troubles.
- The old man was determined to hang on to his independence and refused to move into a nursing home.
2
to keep a strong emotional or mental connection to something, such as memories, feelings, values, etc.
transitive
- Even though we live far apart now, I will always hang on to the cherished memories of our childhood.
- As the years passed, she continued to hang on to the love and warmth of her family traditions.
- In challenging moments, it's crucial to hang on to the belief that things will get better.
- She always hangs on to her unwavering faith in the power of education to change lives.
- Despite the distance, they promised to hang on to the deep connection they felt for each other.
3
to physically hold or retain possession of something securely and firmly
- During the turbulence, the passengers were advised to hang on tightly to their seats.
- She managed to hang on to the rope, preventing herself from falling off the cliff.
- Despite the strong winds, he hung on to his hat with one hand while holding the umbrella with the other.
- In the crowded bus, she had to hang on to the overhead strap to keep her balance.
- The toddler giggled as he hung on to his father's leg, refusing to let go.