Hang in There Meaning: What does “Hang in There” Mean? Helpful Examples

Last updated on June 4, 2024 by Liam Daniel

“Hang in there” is a very common idiomatic phrase that is used in everyday conversation and writing. Here you will find the meaning of this figurative phrase, in addition to the story behind its origin. You will also find multiple examples of how to properly use this phrase in conversations/statements and some more literal ways to convey the same thought.

Hang In There

Hang In There Meaning

The idiom “hang in there” means something you tell someone when you want them to not give up when things are getting difficult.

Origin of this idiomatic expression

This phrase became popular in the 1970s. It was during this time that a poster was produced that features a Siamese cat holding on tightly to the branch of a tree. The phrase appeared on the poster along with the image and the meaning was adopted from the image. It was clear to see the cat was holding on with everything it had and not giving up.

“Hang In There” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement in a local news story.

  • “Citizens in the town were told to hang in there by the local utility department as they attempted to fix the water main break.”

A statement made by a football team captain.

  • “I told my team to hang in there and finish the game strong.”

Examples in Conversations

A conversation between a teacher and student.

  • Student: I am not sure I am ever going to understand all these math concepts.
  • Teacher: Just hang in there! It will all make sense to you eventually with time and practice.

A conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: I don’t know if I can take much more bad news. I feel like throwing in the towel.
  • Friend 2: I know, but if you just hang in there you will get through it.

More useful examples:

  • Hang in there, everything will be fine.
  • The best of course will hang in there and tough it out.
  • Hang in there, baby. You can pass the university entrance exam!
  • Hang in there! You’ll soon catch on to the language.
  • No matter how long it takes, just hang in there.

Other Ways to Say “Hang In There”

Like all idiomatic phrases, there are several ways to say this phrase in a more literal way to convey the same thought. Other ways you could say the same thing in more literal terms include stick with it, see it through to the finish or stay the course.

List of “Hang In There” synonyms:

  • Hold on
  • Hold tight
  • Keep
  • Stay strong
  • Be patient
  • Maintain
  • Keep it up
  • Do not give up
  • Hold your horses

What does “Hang In There” Mean? | Image

Hang In There

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