hang about crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "hang about" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "hang about crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LURK: To be or remain hidden, often implying a presence without clear purpose, fitting the idea of hanging about inconspicuously.
IDLE: To spend time doing nothing or being inactive, which is a direct meaning of "hang about".
5 Letters
HOVER: To remain in one place in the air or around a particular area, often implying a form of lingering or waiting.
6 Letters
LOITER: To stand or wait around idly or without apparent purpose, a very common and direct synonym for "hang about".
LINGER: To stay in a place longer than necessary, typically because of a reluctance to leave, often implying a casual or aimless presence.
DAWDLE: To waste time; to be slow, often by spending time in a leisurely or aimless way, synonymous with hanging about.
More About "hang about crossword clue"
"Hang about" is a common phrasal verb that often appears in crosswords, and its meaning generally revolves around idleness, waiting, or lingering without a specific goal. The trick to solving this clue lies in understanding the subtle nuances of its synonyms and how they fit into the crossword grid based on letter count and surrounding clues. Puzzles love to use these everyday phrases to challenge solvers with multiple possible answers.
When you encounter "hang about" in a crossword, think about contexts where someone might be aimlessly present. Is it a person waiting for someone? An object remaining in a place? Or perhaps a more abstract concept of time passing slowly? The best answer will always be the one that fits perfectly with the number of letters and any intersecting words you've already solved.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options for a clue like "hang about."
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Crosswords often rely on direct synonyms. For "hang about," think of all the ways you could express staying idly in a place. Also, consider if the clue is a cryptic one implying the opposite.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, another solved clue that intersects with your current one will provide a crucial letter, helping you confirm or eliminate potential answers for "hang about."
- Think About Context: While "hang about" has a general meaning, sometimes the crossword constructor might be hinting at a specific context (e.g., "hang about in the shadows" pointing to LURK).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hang about' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'hang about' typically refers to idling, lingering, waiting aimlessly, or staying in a place without a clear purpose. Answers often revolve around words like LOITER, LINGER, or DAWDLE.
Are there common synonyms for 'hang about' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include to loiter, to linger, to lurk, to dawdle, or to idle. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and any crossing letters.
How can I get better at solving cryptic clues like 'hang about'?
Look for synonyms, consider different parts of speech, and be aware of potential hidden words or anagrams. Practice recognizing common crossword tropes and wordplay. Sometimes the clue hints at a literal interpretation of 'hanging' or 'being near'.