The phrasal verb 'hang about' is predominantly used in informal contexts. It conveys the idea of loitering or spending time idly in a particular place without a definite purpose, often used in British English. Typically, 'hang about' might involve waiting around aimlessly, or having no particular intention about what to do next. Usage of this phrasal verb is more common in casual speech rather than formal writing or discourse. Additionally, 'hang about' can serve conversational purposes to express skepticism or to pause for thought when followed by a question or exclamation, somewhat similar to saying 'hold on a second' in American English.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To stay in a place or to wait with no specific purpose or without doing much.
We used to hang about the park after school.
He's always hanging about the library, even though he's not studying.
2. To move or be around a place frequently or habitually.
The stray dog tends to hang about the neighborhood.