on a hook

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a hook" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is suspended or hanging, often metaphorically to indicate being in a precarious or uncertain situation. Example: "He left his coat on a hook by the door before heading into the living room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A hole near one edge of the blade allows you to store it on a hook.

The New York Times - Food

I am a worm on a hook.

Independent

An orphaned jacket hung on a hook.

The New Yorker

Did you hang it on a hook?

The New York Times - Books

"The key's on a hook," he heard Annagret say.

The New Yorker

You have to catch them on a hook.

The New York Times

He squirms like a worm on a hook whenever someone points out his wealth.

The New York Times

As bait he had a live goldfish impaled on a hook.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Villanova (11-3) seized control on a hook-and-ladder play.

The New York Times - Sports

Cold smoke the pork in a smokehouse or smoker by hanging on a hook for 7 to 10 days.

WikiHow

Put them on a hook and catch some fish.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a hook" when describing a state of suspension, either literally (hanging an object) or figuratively (being in a precarious situation).

Common error

Avoid using "on a hook" solely in literal contexts. Its strength lies in its figurative use to convey uncertainty or vulnerability, which adds depth to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a hook" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate location or state. Ludwig examples show its use both literally, referring to physical suspension, and figuratively, to describe a state of vulnerability or uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

22%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a hook" is a versatile prepositional phrase with both literal and figurative applications. It is grammatically correct and commonly used, as Ludwig AI confirms. While it often appears in news and media, its usage extends to more informal contexts. Figuratively, it describes a state of vulnerability or uncertainty, adding depth and nuance to writing. When using "on a hook", consider whether you aim to describe physical placement or a more abstract state of precarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hanging in the balance

Underscores the precariousness of a situation where the outcome is uncertain.

dependent on something

This focuses on the reliance aspect, where one thing is contingent upon another.

caught in a trap

Implies being ensnared or unable to escape a difficult situation.

contingent upon

Highlights the conditional nature, suggesting that something is subject to another event or condition.

liable to

Suggests a tendency or probability of experiencing something, often negative.

in a bind

Emphasizes a difficult situation or predicament.

in a predicament

Similar to "in a bind", but perhaps implying a more formal or complex difficulty.

beholden to

Emphasizes obligation or indebtedness to someone or something.

at risk

Focuses on the vulnerability or danger associated with a situation.

in suspense

Highlights the uncertainty and anticipation of a pending outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "on a hook" in a sentence?

You can use "on a hook" to describe something physically hanging, as in "The coat was "hanging on a peg"". Figuratively, it can mean someone is in a vulnerable position, such as "He felt like a fish "on a bait"".

What does it mean to have someone "on a hook"?

To have someone "on a hook" implies that you have some leverage or control over them, often in a manipulative way. It suggests they are in a position where they are vulnerable to your actions.

Which is correct: "hang on a hook" or "hang it on a hook"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they have different meanings. "Hang on a hook" implies resting weight on a hook, while "hang it on a hook" means to suspend something from the hook.

Can "on a hook" be used in a business context?

Yes, "on a hook" can be used figuratively in a business context to describe a deal that is uncertain or a strategy that is risky. For example, "The company's future is "hanging in the balance" pending the outcome of the merger".