The phrasal verb "hang on" is primarily used in informal speech, making frequent appearances in everyday conversation. It typically conveys the meaning of waiting momentarily or holding on physically, mentally, or emotionally. For instance, people often use "hang on" when telling someone to wait briefly, as in "Hang on a second, I’ll be right back." Furthermore, it can also imply perseverance or maintaining effort in challenging situations, akin to "holding on," like in "Hang on, things will get better soon." Additionally, in a conversation, it might signify pausing to reconsider or process information, such as "Hang on, are you saying...?" Although less common in formal contexts, it can occasionally appear in written directives or spoken instructions to convey urgency or the need for a pause.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To wait for a short period.
Hang on, I'll be back in a minute.
Could you hang on while I find a pen?
2. To hold something tightly.
Hang on to the railing so you don't slip.
She told him to hang on during the rollercoaster ride.