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Difference between Hang one’s hat and Hang up one’s hat

admin Confusing Phrases

hang one’s hat—

1. settle oneself; take up residence:

  • She’s looking for somewhere to hang her hat, now that her twentyyear marriage has ended.

2. (on) depend upon smb.; rely on a person:

  • Why that’s my preacher. I hang my hat on him every time.

hang up one’s hat—

1. retire from a position or a job:

  • Police chief Ron Johnson hung up his hat today after forty years of service.

2. (coll.) die:

  • Old Johnson finally hung up his hat. He’s been sick for a while though.