Learn English – “Hang in” vs. “hang on”

idiomsprepositionsword-choice

Are these two the same when used to express "keep it up" or "survive a little longer"? Also, I often hear people say "hang in there", but I rarely hear people say "hang on there".

Best Answer

"Hang in" means to endure. It's often an exhortation, as in "Hang in there, you'll be alright", but it can be descriptive as well: "Muhammed Ali was winning, but Norton was hanging in there."

"Hang on" can also be an exhortation to endure, but it can also mean, "please wait": "Hang on for a moment while I check". If said forcefully it's a command to slow down or stop. "Now hang on there! That's not what you're supposed to do!"