Hang onto is a commonly used phrasal verb, meaning to hold onto something tightly or to persevere despite difficulties. There are a number of synonyms for this word, including cling, grip, clutch, grasp, and retain. Each of these words can be used in different contexts to express the same idea of holding on tight. For example, one might say, "She clung to the last shred of hope," or "He gripped the handlebar tightly as he rode his bike down the steep hill." No matter which synonym you choose, the meaning of the phrase remains the same: to hold onto something tightly, whether it be a physical object or an idea.