Hang about

usgb
phrasal verb

To stay or wait somewhere without a clear purpose.

He's been hanging about outside my house for hours.
Visual representation of "hang about" - To stay or wait somewhere without a clear purpose

Often appears as...

  • hang about outside
  • hang about in
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "hang about"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Social Context

Used when someone stays near a place or person, possibly waiting for something to happen or someone to arrive.

Illustration for Social Context
Why do you hang about near the cinema every evening?
LampPro Tip 2/3

Lack of Purpose

Implies a lack of specific intent or goal, often with an unwelcome or suspicious undertone.

Illustration for Lack of Purpose
The group of youths were just hanging about, with nothing to do.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not in a Hurry

Suggests someone is not in a rush and is spending their time leisurely.

Illustration for Not in a Hurry
It's a nice day, let's hang about the park for a while.
Visual representation of the word "Hang about"

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