Hang on for dear life Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To hold onto something very tightly because you are afraid, nervous, or in a dangerous situation. This expression is often used both literally (physically gripping something) and figuratively (dealing with a difficult situation).
Usage & Nuances
Informal, often dramatic or humorous; used for both physical gripping (like on a roller coaster) and emotional situations (enduring stress). Collocations: 'hang on/tight for dear life'. Not about literal life-or-death—it exaggerates strong effort or fear.
Example Sentences
He hung on for dear life as the bus turned the sharp corner.
basic
The child hung on for dear life to his mother's hand in the crowd.
basic
You have to hang on for dear life during the roller coaster ride.
basic
When things get tough at work, I just hang on for dear life and hope for the best.
natural
The dog was hanging on for dear life to its favorite toy during the thunderstorm.
natural
He barely survived the boat ride, just hanging on for dear life the whole time.
natural