English idiom

hang in there

Register · Informal CEFR B1

Post

Figurative meaning

to persevere and not give up despite difficulty

Why this phrase?

The phrase pictures a person clinging on rather than letting go; an encouragement to keep one's grip through hard times.

Example

“Hang in there — the exams are almost over.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

break a leg

A way of wishing someone good luck, especially before a performance.

easier said than done

Something that sounds simple to do but is actually hard.

in a tight spot

in a difficult or dangerous situation

in hot water

In trouble or facing difficulty.

in the same boat

in the same difficult situation as other people

keep your chin up

To stay cheerful and brave during a difficult time.

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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