cling (on) to
Meaning(s)
1. hold onto something/someone in a firm and/or determined way
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
cling to/onto someone/power
Analysis
To 'cling on' means to grip something hard or hold onto something tightly. To cling on can also mean to try hard to retain or keep something such as a position of power or holding onto a belief.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I clung to the hand rail as I walked down the icy steps to make sure that I didn't slip.
- The dictator of the country sent in the military to attack protesters in a desperate attempt to cling onto power.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- Chris is still clinging on to the hope that he will get the job even after his interview turned out to be a disaster.
- We have the choice to cling onto the hope that we will never face difficult conditions or put a plan in place for the worst-case scenario.