The difference between Hang on and Stand by

When used as verbs, hang on means to wait a moment (usually imperative), whereas stand by means to wait in expectation of some event.


check bellow for the other definitions of Hang on and Stand by

  1. Hang on as a verb (idiomatic):

    To wait a moment (usually imperative).

    Examples:

    "'Hang on. Let me check."

  2. Hang on as a verb:

    To hold, grasp, or grip.

    Examples:

    "'Hang on to the handle so you don't drop it."

  3. Hang on as a verb (idiomatic):

    To keep; to store something for someone

    Examples:

    "'Hang on to my jacket until I get back."

  4. Hang on as a verb (idiomatic):

    To pay close attention.

    Examples:

    "The audience hangs on his every word."

  5. Hang on as a verb (idiomatic):

    To continually believe in something; to have faith in.

    Examples:

    "He's got a philosophy he hangs on to."

  6. Hang on as a verb (idiomatic):

    To persevere.

    Examples:

    "Just hang on and keep going; this pain won't last forever."

  1. Stand by as a verb (idiomatic, intransitive):

    To wait in expectation of some event; to make ready.

    Examples:

    "Please stand by for more instructions."

  2. Stand by as a verb (idiomatic, transitive):

    To remain loyal or faithful to.

    Examples:

    "Even though money is scarce sometimes, Ann stands by her decision to be a full-time mother."

  3. Stand by as a verb (idiomatic, transitive):

    To support; to continue to support despite things being bad.

    Examples:

    "They stood by us all along and it's awesome to see them out here to support us today."

  4. Stand by as a verb (intransitive):

    To do nothing. To be inactive in a situation.

    Examples:

    "I can't simply stand by and watch you ruin your life."

  5. Stand by as a verb (intransitive):

    to be ready to provide assistance if required.

    Examples:

    "The tug stood by in case it was needed."