What are the definitions of “hanker for”?
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 have always HANKERED FOR a soft top car.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hanker for”?
The phrasal verb hanker for 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 for”?
| Root Verb | hanker for |
| Third Person Singular Present | hankers for |
| Present Participle | hankering for |
| Simple Past | hankered for |
| Past Participle | hankered for |
Example
She hankers for a luxurious vacation.
Example
He hankers for a piece of chocolate cake, even though he's on a diet.
Example
They are hankering for a chance to travel the world.
Example
She hankered for a promotion at work, but it never came.
Example
He had always hankered for a life of adventure.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hanker 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.)
Transitive verb
“hanker for” 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 for a new pair of shoes.
Example
He hankers for success in his career.
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 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
She hankers for a new pair of shoes.
Example
He hankers for success in his career.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hanker for”?
Hanker after
Similar to *hanker for,* meaning to strongly desire or want something.
Example
She hankers after a life of luxury and fame.
Good things to know
Does “hanker for” have an informal or formal tone?
Hanker for is a somewhat informal phrasal verb, more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'desire,' 'long for,' or 'crave.'
