The Village Idiom

hang together

The idiom "hang together" means to stay united and support each other, especially during challenging or difficult times.

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In a sentence

  • We need to hang together if we want to win this competition.
  • The team's success relies on their ability to hang together and support each other during tough times.
  • During times of crisis, it is important for the community to hang together and provide assistance to those in need.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "hang together" is a figurative expression that describes the idea of unity, cooperation, or solidarity in the face of adversity or challenges. It can also imply the concept of strength in numbers, where individuals or groups are better able to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals when they "hang together."

One important fact about the idiom "hang together" is that it originated from a famous quote by Benjamin Franklin during the American Revolutionary War. In 1787, Franklin famously wrote, "We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately." This quote reflected Franklin's belief in the importance of the colonies standing united against the British Empire in order to achieve independence. By using the idiom "hang together," Franklin emphasized the need for unity and cooperation among the colonists.

The idiom "hang together" represents unity, collective strength, interdependence, and cooperation. It originated from a significant quote by Benjamin Franklin and has become a widely used expression. By "hanging together," individuals and groups can increase their chances of success and overcome challenges. The related idioms "hold together," "hang tough," and "hang in" further highlight the concepts of cohesion, perseverance, and commitment that are associated with "hanging together." These idioms illustrate the importance of unity, collective strength, and resilience in navigating through difficult times and achieving common goals.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.