# cling on to

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cling-on-to
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to hold something very tightly because you are afraid or do not want to lose it.

For teachers: to maintain a firm physical or metaphorical grip on something; often implies a sense of desperation, insecurity, or resistance to change.

## Examples

- The child clings on to his mother's hand in the crowd.
- Despite the company's failing profits, the CEO tried to cling on to his position of power.
- The survivors managed to cling on to the wreckage for several hours before the rescue helicopter finally spotted them in the dark water.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He clings on his old ideas." but "He clings on to his old ideas." — the preposition 'to' must follow 'on' to connect the verb to the object.

## Usage notes

- often used with abstract nouns like power, hope, or beliefs to show a refusal to let go.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'cling to' (without 'on'); 'cling on to' often emphasizes the effort or struggle involved in maintaining the hold.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.