ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hang out for

phr. v..
C1 Advanced Oxford British English Informal

phr. v.. to wait for something very much because you really want or need it.

phr. v.. to wait expectantly or eagerly for something; often implies a state of deprivation or strong desire for the object of the preposition.


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.

Particles
out for
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
hang + out + for + object
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'.

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