C1verb2K

Cling

UK /["/klɪŋ/","/klɪŋz/","/klʌŋ/","/ˈklɪŋɪŋ/"]/US /["/klɪŋ/","/klɪŋz/","/klʌŋ/","/ˈklɪŋɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to hold on tightly to somebody/something

In simple words: To hold on tightly to something

Examples

  • The child began to cling to her mother's leg, feeling shy in the new environment.
  • Even after the argument, she continued to cling to her beliefs.
  • The wet clothes will cling to your skin if you don't dry off.
  • He tends to cling to the past, making it hard for him to move forward.
  • The sticker will cling to the surface even after being peeled off a few times.

Usage notes

Used in various contexts, like physical grip or emotional attachment. Avoid when describing a detached state or lack of concern. More common in physical contexts than emotional.

Grammar pattern

cling + to + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'cling' — imagine a child clinging to their parent’s leg.

Collocations

  • closely
  • firmly
  • tightly
  • onto
  • to
  • close
  • closely
  • to

Synonyms

  • stick
  • grasp
  • adhere
  • attach
  • fasten

Antonyms

  • release
  • let go
  • detach

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'clingy' which describes someone dependent
  • Incorrectly using 'cling' without an object (e.g., 'I cling')
  • Using 'cling' in passive form incorrectly