Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
be hanging over someone's head
idiom
/bi ‘hæŋɪŋ ˈoʊvər ˈsʌmˌwʌnz hɛd/
Definition
To cause someone ongoing worry or anxiety about an impending obligation or responsibility.
Examples
- With the deadline approaching, the project deadline was hanging over her head.
- The thought of the final exams was hanging over his head all semester.
- Knowing that she had not completed her assignment left a cloud hanging over her head.
Meaning
This phrase means that a pressing issue or worry is constantly present in someone’s mind, creating a feeling of unease or concern.
Synonyms
- looming over
- worrying about
- haunting
- weighing on
