hang over

1. Remain suspended or unsettled, as in They plan to let the vote hang over until the next session . This usage alludes to something suspended or floating in the air. [c. 1200]

2. Also, hang over one's head . Threaten or be imminent, as in I've got that test hanging over me , or A stiff fine is hanging over his head . [Mid-1500s] Also see hang by a thread .

Example Sentences

I think they hang over students heads the various levels of precarity in the hope that it curbs or stops pro-Palestinian speech.

From Slate

And although Trump’s 2018 and 2019 summits with Kim ended without a denuclearization deal — and prompted criticisms they were little more than glorified photo-ops — questions now hang over whether a second-term Trump would try to pick up where they left off.

From Los Angeles Times

He was also charged earlier this year with lese majeste, over comments he made nine years ago in exile - a case with potentially serious consequences which may hang over him for years.

From BBC

The shadow of Ivan Toney's potential departure will hang over Brentford for the rest of this transfer window and there is no doubt it would damage the Bees in a big way if he leaves, especially after a cruel twist of fate in pre-season.

From BBC

BBC Wales spoke to the families of two men and one released prisoner who say their lives have been ruined by the sentences which still hang over them, despite the law since being scrapped.

From BBC

Related Words

• brew
• come on
• dominate
• emerge
• hover
• mount
• overshadow
• portend
• soar
• stand out
• threaten