What are the definitions of “hang out for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Wait or refuse to do something until you get what you want.
She's HANGING OUT FOR a big raise.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hang out for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hang out for is to wait or refuse to do something until you get what you want. It often implies that someone is being persistent or determined in their pursuit of a specific goal or outcome.
What are the different verb forms of “hang out for”?
| Root Verb | hang out for |
| Third Person Singular Present | hangs out for |
| Present Participle | hanging out for |
| Simple Past | hung out for |
| Past Participle | hung out for |
Example
He is hanging out for a promotion before he considers changing jobs.
Example
She hangs out for the perfect opportunity to start her own business.
Example
They are hanging out for a better deal before signing the contract.
Example
He hung out for a higher salary during the job negotiation.
Example
She had hung out for a better offer before accepting the job.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hang out for”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“hang out for” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
He hung out for a better deal.
Example
She hangs out for the perfect opportunity.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“hang out for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He hung out for a better deal.
Example
She hangs out for the perfect opportunity.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hang out for”?
Hang out for something
Waiting or refusing to do something until a specific condition is met or a desired outcome is achieved.
Example
He won't accept any job offers; he's hanging out for a position with a higher salary.
Good things to know
Does “hang out for” have an informal or formal tone?
Hang out for is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use alternative phrases such as 'wait for,' 'hold out for,' or 'insist on.'
