HANGING ON Meaning and
Definition
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Hanging on is a colloquial expression that can be interpreted in various ways depending on the context. It typically refers to the act or state of persisting or enduring in a particular situation, especially when faced with difficulty or adversity.
One common usage of "hanging on" is in relation to perseverance or tenacity. It implies the act of continuing to work towards a goal or sustaining an effort despite challenges or setbacks. This could be seen in instances when a person is holding onto hope or pushing forward despite overwhelming obstacles.
Furthermore, "hanging on" can also denote a state of emotional or mental endurance, particularly in times of distress. It can describe a person's ability to maintain composure or resilience during challenging or stressful circumstances. This could be exhibited when someone is managing a difficult situation or coping with personal hardship without giving up.
In a social or interpersonal context, "hanging on" can refer to maintaining a connection or staying in touch with someone even when they are physically distant or emotionally unavailable. It suggests the effort put into sustaining relationships, friendships, or connections despite difficulties or obstacles that may threaten their continuity.
Overall, "hanging on" embodies the idea of persistence, resilience, and dedication in face of challenges. It implies the act of remaining steadfast, both in practical and emotional aspects, in order to overcome obstacles or maintain important connections in one's life.
Common Misspellings for HANGING ON
- ganging on
- banging on
- nanging on
- janging on
- uanging on
- yanging on
- hznging on
- hsnging on
- hwnging on
- hqnging on
- habging on
- hamging on
- hajging on
- hahging on
- hanfing on
- hanving on
- hanbing on
- hanhing on
- hanying on
- hanting on
- hangingon
Etymology of HANGING ON
The phrase "hanging on" is derived from the verb "hang" and the preposition "on".
The word "hang" can be traced back to Old English through its Germanic roots. In Old English, the verb was "hōn", which meant to suspend or be suspended. It is related to similar words in other Germanic languages such as German "hängen" and Dutch "hangen".
The preposition "on" is derived from the Old English word "on", which is also related to other Germanic languages. It has a general sense of indicating position or attachment to something.
When the two words are combined, "hang" describes the action of suspension, while "on" denotes attachment or continuity. Therefore, "hanging on" implies the act of staying attached or connected to something or persevering despite difficulty or against the odds.
Idioms with the word HANGING ON
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be hanging on by your fingernails
The idiom "be hanging on by your fingernails" means to barely maintain one's position or hold on to something, often in a desperate or precarious situation. It implies a state of struggling, clinging, or barely managing to survive or succeed.
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be hanging on by (one's) fingertips
The idiom "be hanging on by (one's) fingertips" means that someone is barely managing to survive or maintain a situation, often in a desperate or precarious position. It conveys the image of someone clinging to a ledge or a cliff with little strength or support.
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be hanging on by your fingertips
The idiom "be hanging on by your fingertips" means to be in a precarious or desperate situation where one's grip on something, often metaphorical, is weak and uncertain. It suggests that the person is barely able to maintain their position or hold on to something, facing the possibility of losing control or falling.
