PhrasesHub

hung in the air

    Definitions

      • uncertain or unresolved
        Describing a situation or issue that remains unresolved or unclear, creating a sense of tension or anticipation

      • lingered
        Referring to something that remains present or noticeable in a particular environment or situation

    Examples of hung in the air

    • The comment she made during the meeting hung in the air for a few seconds before someone finally spoke up.

      The comment that she made during the meeting remained unanswered and silent for a few seconds before someone responded. It was as if the comment was suspended in mid-air and was not immediately followed by any reaction from the others present in the meeting.

    • The words that he said to her yesterday still hung in the air, heavy and unsaid between them.

      The words that he said to her yesterday still remained unspoken and pregnant with meaning between them. It was as if the words were suspended in mid-air, waiting to be acknowledged or addressed.

    • The silence between them hung in the air, thick and palpable as they sat across from each other at the dinner table.

      The silence between the two of them was heavy and oppressive, making the air seem thick and palpable as they sat across from each other at the dinner table. It was as if the silence was suspended in mid-air, filling the space between them and making it uncomfortable and tense.

    • Her question hung in the air like a boulder, waiting for someone to move it.

      Her question remained unanswered and suspended in mid-air, waiting for someone to address it. It was as if the question was a heavy boulder suspended in mid-air, waiting for someone to move it and provide an answer.

    • After the explosive argument between my parents, an uncomfortable silence hung in the air like a thick fog.

      The phrase "hung in the air" is used to describe an extended period of quietness or stillness in which no one speaks or makes a sound. The comparison to a thick fog creates a visual image of the heavy and oppressive atmosphere.

    • His accusatory words hung in the air like a bad odor, forcing us all to back away and gag.

      Here, the phrase "hung in the air" is used metaphorically to describe the unpleasant impact of someone's statements. The comparison to a bad odor creates a forceful and repulsive image, suggesting that the words are almost palpable and feel almost physical.

    • The news of his sudden promotion hung in the air like a butterfly, delicate and unpredictable, waiting to be carried away by the wind.

      In this example, the comparison to a butterfly is unexpected, but it highlights the fleeting and elusive nature of the surprise announcement. The phrase "hung in the air" suggests a temporary pause before the news is either celebrated or dismissed, emphasizing the ambiguity and uncertainty surrounding any major change.

    • The harsh fluorescent lights flickered ominously, casting eerie shadows on the walls and making the silence hang in the air like a menacing presence.

      In this final example, the phrase "hang in the air" is used to describe the sense of unease and tension caused by the flickering lights and shadows. The comparison to a menacing presence suggests that the silence itself is dangerous, and creates a chilling and unsettling atmosphere.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "hung in the air" is used to convey a sense of uncertainty or lingering presence. It is often employed to describe unresolved issues or situations that create tension or anticipation. When something is said to be "hung in the air," it signifies that it has not been fully addressed or dealt with, leaving a sense of unease or ambiguity. This expression can also indicate that something is still noticeable or present in a particular environment, adding to the atmosphere or mood of a situation.

    In everyday conversations, people may use this idiom to discuss unresolved matters or lingering feelings that have not been resolved. It can be used to express a sense of anticipation or discomfort regarding a situation that has not been fully resolved. By saying that something is "hung in the air," individuals convey a feeling of uncertainty or unease about the outcome or future implications of a particular issue.

    Origin of "hung in the air"

    The origin of the idiom "hung in the air" can be traced back to the idea of something being suspended or lingering in a physical space. The word "hung" suggests that something is suspended or held in a particular position, while "in the air" implies that it is present in the surrounding environment. This expression likely originated from the physical act of hanging objects in the air, creating a visual image of something being unresolved or lingering.

    Over time, the idiom evolved to take on a more metaphorical meaning, referring to intangible concepts such as emotions, thoughts, or situations that remain unresolved or present in a particular context. The use of this idiom in everyday language reflects the human tendency to express abstract ideas through tangible imagery, emphasizing the importance of clarity and resolution in communication.