You’ve likely encountered the terms hanged and hung and wondered which is the correct word to use in different situations. The two words are often confused because they both refer to the past tense of hang, but they are used in very specific and distinct contexts.
In this post, we’ll explore the differences between hanged and hung and clarify when to use each term properly.
Understanding Hanged And Hung
Hanged: Definition and Usage
Hanged is used exclusively when referring to the execution of a person by hanging.
It is the correct past tense and past participle when describing the act of someone being put to death by hanging.
The word hanged is reserved for this legal and historical context.
For example:
- “The criminal was hanged for his crimes.”
- “In the past, people convicted of certain crimes were hanged.”
In both cases, hanged specifically refers to a method of execution.
Hung: Definition and Usage
Hung, on the other hand, is used in all other contexts involving the act of suspending something.
Whether you are talking about a picture on a wall or clothes on a line, hung is the appropriate term.
Hung is the more versatile of the two and can be used in everyday situations.
For example:
- “She hung the painting in the living room.”
- “The coat was hung on the hook by the door.”
Here, hung is used for objects and does not imply anything related to execution.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Hanged | Hung |
| Definition | Past tense of hang, used in the context of executions. | Past tense of hang, used in all other contexts. |
| Common Usage | “He was hanged for his crimes.” | “The picture was hung on the wall.” |
| Key Differences | Used only in reference to execution by hanging. | Used for all non-execution scenarios involving hanging objects. |
When deciding between hanged and hung, the key factor is the context.
If you’re discussing a historical execution or the act of putting someone to death by hanging, use hanged. For all other situations, including hanging objects or decorations, use hung.
Everyday Usage Examples
Here are examples of how hanged and hung are used in everyday language:
- Hanged: “In the old days, many criminals were hanged after a trial.”
- Hung: “She hung her coat neatly in the closet.”
- Hanged: “The notorious pirate was captured and hanged.”
- Hung: “They hung the curtains in the new house.”
- Hanged: “Historically, people were often hanged for treason.”
- Hung: “He carefully hung the family photos on the wall.”
Conclusion
In summary, hanged and hung are both past forms of the verb hang, but their uses differ depending on the context. Hanged is used strictly when referring to executions, while hung is used for all other situations involving hanging objects or items.
Knowing when to use each term will improve your accuracy in writing and help you avoid a common mistake.