# hang onto

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hang-onto
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to keep something instead of giving it away or throwing it out; you can also use it to mean holding something tightly with your hands.

For teachers: to retain possession of an object or to maintain a physical grip on something; often used figuratively to describe keeping a job, a belief, or an advantage.

## Examples

- You should hang onto that receipt in case you need a refund.
- The climber had to hang onto the rope with both hands as the wind grew stronger.
- Despite the economic downturn, the company managed to hang onto its market share by aggressively cutting costs and pivoting to digital services.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I will hang on it." but "I will hang onto it." — the preposition 'onto' is necessary to show the relationship with the object being kept or held.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a physical object or an abstract noun like 'hope', 'job', or 'lead'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'keep' to show that 'hang onto' often implies a bit more effort or a specific decision not to let go.

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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.