What are the definitions of “hanker after”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Want something a lot, especially if you shouldn't want it or can't have it.
I'm supposed to be on a diet and I can't stop HANKERING AFTER some chocolate.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hanker after”?
The phrasal verb hanker after means to strongly desire or want something, especially when it is something you shouldn't want or can't have. It often implies a sense of longing or craving for the desired object or experience.
What are the different verb forms of “hanker after”?
| Root Verb | hanker after |
| Third Person Singular Present | hankers after |
| Present Participle | hankering after |
| Simple Past | hankered after |
| Past Participle | hankered after |
Example
She always hankers after the latest fashion trends.
Example
He hankers after a promotion at work, even though it's unlikely.
Example
They are hankering after a vacation, but they can't afford it right now.
Example
She hankered after the cake, even though she was on a diet.
Example
He had always hankered after a life of adventure.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hanker after”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“hanker after” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She hankers after a new car.
Example
He hankered after a taste of the forbidden fruit.
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
“hanker after” 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
She hankers after a new car.
Example
He hankered after a taste of the forbidden fruit.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hanker after”?
Hanker for
Similar to *hanker after,* it means to have a strong desire or craving for something.
Example
She hankers for a chance to prove herself in the competition.
Good things to know
Does “hanker after” have an informal or formal tone?
Hanker after is a relatively informal phrasal verb and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms like 'desire,' 'long for,' or 'crave.'
