Leave someone hanging
Meaning
To keep someone in a state of suspense or uncertainty, often by delaying a promised action or response.
Origin
The phrase "leave someone hanging" originates directly from the celebratory gesture of the "high five." Picture two people extending their hands for an enthusiastic mid-air slap, a symbol of shared triumph. When one person fails to complete this gesture, the other's hand is left suspended, unsupported, and unmatched—an awkward moment of unreciprocated energy. This literal act of an unreturned high five vividly captured the feeling of being left in suspense, expectation, or uncertainty, quickly becoming a universal metaphor for any situation where a promised action or response is withheld.
Examples
- After promising to call back with the job offer, the recruiter left Sarah hanging for an entire week.
- I hate it when people don't respond to my texts; it really leaves me hanging about our plans.