dangling around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dangling around" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is moving or hanging loosely, often without a clear purpose or direction. Example: "The kids were just dangling around the playground, unsure of what to do next."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

If you're worried about the flames harming pets with their long tails or kids with their cloaks dangling around, a battery powered light can provide a safe alternative, and they're inexpensive.

WikiHow

Earplugs on cords were dangling around their necks.

The New Yorker

"What's mine is yours, Coach," she said holding up the gold medal dangling around her neck.

The New York Times

Soon he will walk away with the last of his medals dangling around his neck.

The Guardian - Sport

They are naked, save for tiny gold Stars of David dangling around their necks.

The New York Times - Arts

For a show with so many strands of story dangling around everywhere, it's remarkably unbothered with plot.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Updike observes that the Umbrella Man "dangles around history's neck like a fetish".

The New Yorker

His longish hair was slicked back and a striped scarf dangled around his neck.

The New York Times

Carter was likewise dangled around the league, drawing interest from Houston, Dallas and San Antonio, among others.

The New York Times

An iPod-size microphone that dangled around her neck transmitted the sound.

The New York Times

What had once formed a canopy now dangled around the base of the plant, like a cast-off grass skirt.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical objects, use "dangling around" to vividly depict their loose or unsecured state. For example, "wires dangling around" creates a sense of disarray.

Common error

While acceptable, "dangling around" may sound too informal for academic papers or business reports. Opt for more precise or formal alternatives like "hanging loosely" or "suspended freely" in professional writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dangling around" functions as a phrasal verb, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its state of being loosely suspended or moving without a fixed position. This is evident in Ludwig's examples, such as "medals dangling around his neck" and "wires dangling around".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "dangling around" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe something hanging or moving loosely. Ludwig highlights its prevalence in News & Media, indicating its suitability for general descriptive writing. While generally neutral, it might be too informal for academic or business contexts, where alternatives like "hanging loosely" or "suspended freely" might be more appropriate. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and acceptability in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hanging around

Similar to "dangling around" but often implies lingering or loitering in a place.

dangling freely

Highlights the unrestricted nature of the hanging motion.

suspended loosely

Emphasizes the state of being hung with minimal support.

hanging loosely

Focuses on the manner of hanging, emphasizing the lack of tightness or rigidity.

swinging idly

Highlights the back-and-forth movement without a specific purpose.

flapping about

Suggests a lighter, often uncontrolled movement, like fabric in the wind.

fluttering nearby

Implies a gentle, light movement in close proximity to something.

waving gently

Suggests a slow, graceful movement, often in the air.

bobbing lightly

Implies a quick, up-and-down movement in a fluid.

trailing behind

Focuses on following something, often loosely connected.

FAQs

What does "dangling around" mean?

"Dangling around" means hanging or moving loosely, often without a clear purpose or direction. It suggests a lack of attachment or control.

How can I use "dangling around" in a sentence?

You can use "dangling around" to describe physical objects (e.g., "wires were dangling around") or actions (e.g., "medals dangling around someone's neck").

What are some alternatives to "dangling around"?

Some alternatives include "hanging loosely", "suspended loosely", or "flapping about", depending on the specific context.

Is "dangling around" formal or informal?

"Dangling around" is generally considered informal and is best suited for casual or descriptive writing. More formal alternatives should be used in professional or academic contexts.