get the hang of it

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase get the hang of it, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression get the hang of it used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "get the hang of it"

Meaning

The idiom “get the hang of it” is usually used to refer to someone understanding or learning how to do something quickly or easily. In other words, it means mastering a particular skill or concept.

Etymology

This phrase originated in the United States in the mid-nineteenth century. The exact origin of this phrase is unknown, but it is thought to be derived from the phrase “get the hang of it.” Hang in this sense means “to cling to” or “to hold on”. In other words, the idiom implies that if you “get the hang” of something, you can hold onto it and have mastery of it.

Usage

This phrase is typically used as an encouraging expression when someone is trying to understand or master something, but having difficulty doing so. It is also used to express satisfaction about a person's progress in mastering a particular skill or concept.

Example Sentences

• Don't be discouraged, I'm sure you'll get the hang of it soon.
• You're getting the hang of it! Keep going and you'll be an expert soon.
• It took me a while to get the hang of it, but I finally understand how to do it.

Idioms with similar meanings in different languages

"Barking up the wrong tree" is an English idiom that means to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action. In German, the similar idiom is "Auf dem Holzweg sein," which translates to "To be on the wrong track." This idiom emphasizes the idea that when you are pursuing the wrong course of action, you are not going to achieve your desired outcome.