Phrasal verb
hang out for
Definition
phrasal verb. to wait for something very much because you really want or need it.
phrasal verb. to wait expectantly or eagerly for something; often implies a state of deprivation or strong desire for the object of the preposition.
Examples
“I am hanging out for a cold drink.”
“After three hours in the rain, the hikers were hanging out for a hot shower and a warm meal.”
“The local community has been hanging out for a decision on the new hospital for over a decade, but the government remains silent.”
Examples
simple
“I am hanging out for a cold drink.”
contextual
“After three hours in the rain, the hikers were hanging out for a hot shower and a warm meal.”
complex
“The local community has been hanging out for a decision on the new hospital for over a decade, but the government remains silent.”
Usage
usually followed by a noun representing a desired object or outcome.
Teaching tip
this is primarily an Australasian idiom that has spread; contrast it with 'hang out with' to ensure students don't confuse socialising with desiring.
Pitfall
I am hanging out for meet him.
I am hanging out to meet him.
when followed by a verb, use the infinitive 'to' instead of the preposition 'for'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
out for
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
hang + out + for + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/hang-out-for