Hanger vs Hangar: When To Use Each One In Writing?

Are you one of those people who always get confused between “hanger” and “hangar”? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. These two words sound very similar, but they have completely different meanings. In this article, we’ll dive into the difference between hanger and hangar and help you understand when to use each word.

Let’s clarify which of the two is the proper word. The answer is simple: both. However, they have different meanings and uses. Hanger refers to an object used for hanging clothes, while hangar refers to a large building used for storing airplanes or other vehicles.

When we talk about hanger, we’re referring to a device made of wood, metal, or plastic that is used to hang clothes. You’ll find hangers in every closet, and they come in different shapes and sizes. Some hangers have clips to hold pants or skirts, while others have notches to hold straps or keep clothes from slipping off. Hangers are essential for keeping our clothes organized and wrinkle-free.

On the other hand, a hangar is a large building used for storing and maintaining airplanes or other vehicles. Hangars are usually made of metal, and they come in different sizes depending on the type of vehicles they store. Some hangars are so big that they can hold several planes at once, while others are smaller and can only hold one or two.

Now that we’ve established the difference between hanger and hangar let’s dive into more details about each word and their uses.

Define Hanger

A hanger is a device used to hang clothing or other items. It typically consists of a hook or a curved piece of metal or plastic, attached to a base or a clip. Hangers are commonly used in closets, wardrobes, and laundry rooms to keep clothing organized and wrinkle-free.

There are several types of hangers, including:

• Wire hangers: These are the most common type of hanger and are often used by dry cleaners. They are inexpensive and lightweight, but can bend easily and may not be suitable for heavy items.
• Plastic hangers: These are more durable than wire hangers and can support heavier items. They come in a variety of colors and styles.
• Padded hangers: These are covered in fabric or foam to prevent clothing from slipping off or getting creased. They are often used for delicate or formal clothing.

Define Hangar

A hangar is a large building used to store aircraft. It typically has a large door or doors that can be opened to allow planes to enter and exit. Hangars are used by airlines, military organizations, and private owners to protect aircraft from the elements and to provide space for maintenance and repairs.

There are several types of hangars, including:

• T-hangars: These are small hangars that are shaped like a “T” and are often used by private plane owners.
• Box hangars: These are square or rectangular shaped and are used for storing larger aircraft.
• Open hangars: These are covered structures that do not have walls and are used for storing aircraft in areas with mild climates.

Hangars may also have additional features, such as offices, workshops, and storage areas for equipment and supplies.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to the English language, it’s easy to get confused with words that sound the same but have different meanings. One such example is the words “hanger” and “hangar”. In this section, we’ll discuss how to use these words properly in a sentence.

How To Use “Hanger” In A Sentence

The word “hanger” refers to a device used to hang clothes. Here are some examples of how to use “hanger” in a sentence:

• I need to buy more hangers for my closet.
• She hung her dress on a hanger in the closet.
• The dry cleaner lost one of my hangers.

As you can see from these examples, “hanger” is used to refer to a physical object used for hanging clothes or other items.

How To Use “Hangar” In A Sentence

The word “hangar” refers to a large, enclosed structure used for storing aircraft. Here are some examples of how to use “hangar” in a sentence:

• The airplane was parked in the hangar overnight.
• The military base had several large hangars for storing planes.
• The airport is building a new hangar for private planes.

As you can see from these examples, “hangar” is used to refer to a large structure used for storing aircraft. It’s important to note that “hangar” is not used to refer to a physical object like “hanger”.

More Examples Of Hanger & Hangar Used In Sentences

In order to fully understand the difference between hanger and hangar, it’s important to see how they are used in various contexts. Here are some examples of using hanger and hangar in a sentence:

Examples Of Using Hanger In A Sentence

• She hung her coat on the hanger in the closet.
• The dry cleaner lost one of the hangers from my suit.
• The store sells various types of hangers, including plastic and wooden ones.
• He used a wire hanger to unlock the car door.
• She had a collection of antique hangers from the early 1900s.
• The hanger in the airplane was too small for his carry-on luggage.
• He accidentally left his hanger in the hotel room.
• She used a hanger to create a makeshift hook for her plant.
• The hanger in the shape of a heart was a gift from her significant other.
• He always forgets to return the hangers to the dry cleaner.

Examples Of Using Hangar In A Sentence

• The airplane was stored in the hangar overnight.
• The military base had several large hangars for storing aircraft.
• The hangar door was too narrow for the helicopter to fit through.
• He worked as a mechanic in the hangar at the airport.
• The vintage car was kept in a hangar to protect it from the elements.
• She toured the hangar and saw the various planes on display.
• The hangar was equipped with state-of-the-art technology for aircraft maintenance.
• He was impressed by the size of the hangar and the number of planes it could hold.
• The hangar was damaged in the storm and needed extensive repairs.
• She watched as the helicopter was towed into the hangar for maintenance.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “hanger” and “hangar,” it’s easy to get them confused and use them interchangeably. However, these words have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably. Below are some common mistakes people make when using these words and tips on how to avoid making these mistakes in the future.

Using “Hanger” Instead Of “Hangar”

One of the most common mistakes people make is using “hanger” instead of “hangar.” “Hanger” refers to a device used for hanging clothes, while “hangar” refers to a large building used for storing aircraft. Using “hanger” instead of “hangar” can lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

For example, if you say “The airplane is in the hanger,” people may think you are referring to a device used for hanging clothes instead of a building used for storing aircraft. To avoid this mistake, always double-check which word you are using and make sure it is the correct one for the context.

Using “Hangar” Instead Of “Hanger”

Another common mistake people make is using “hangar” instead of “hanger.” This mistake is less common than the first one, but it still happens. Using “hangar” instead of “hanger” can make your writing or speech sound awkward or confusing.

For example, if you say “I need to buy some hangars for my airplane,” people may be confused because they will think you are referring to a building used for storing aircraft instead of a device used for hanging clothes. To avoid this mistake, always double-check which word you are using and make sure it is the correct one for the context.

Tips For Avoiding Mistakes

Here are some tips to help you avoid making mistakes when using “hanger” and “hangar” in your writing or speech:

• Always double-check which word you are using and make sure it is the correct one for the context.
• Use a dictionary or spell-checker to check the spelling and meaning of the words.
• Read your writing or speech out loud to make sure it sounds correct and makes sense.

By following these tips, you can avoid making common mistakes when using “hanger” and “hangar.”

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “hanger” and “hangar,” context is key. Both words have distinct meanings and usage, and choosing the wrong one can lead to confusion and misunderstanding.

How The Choice Between Hanger And Hangar Can Depend On The Context In Which They Are Used

Generally speaking, “hanger” refers to an object used for hanging clothes or other items, while “hangar” refers to a large enclosed structure used to house aircraft. However, there are certain contexts in which the choice between these two words can be less clear-cut.

For example, in the context of a military base, “hangar” might refer not only to a structure for housing aircraft but also to a building used for storing weapons or other equipment. In this context, using the word “hanger” instead of “hangar” could lead to confusion or miscommunication.

Similarly, in the context of a theater or performance space, “hanger” might refer to a piece of equipment used to suspend lighting or other equipment from the ceiling. In this context, using the word “hangar” would be incorrect and could lead to confusion.

Examples Of Different Contexts And How The Choice Between Hanger And Hangar Might Change

Context	Correct Word	Incorrect Word
Airport	Hangar	Hanger
Clothing Store	Hanger	Hangar
Military Base	Hangar	Hanger
Theater	Hanger	Hangar

As the table above illustrates, the choice between “hanger” and “hangar” can vary depending on the context in which they are used. It’s important to be aware of these differences and to choose the correct word in order to avoid confusion and ensure clear communication.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using hanger and hangar are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions to keep in mind. Here are a few cases where the rules might not apply:

1. Aviation Terminology

In the context of aviation, the term “hanger” is sometimes used instead of “hangar.” This is because “hanger” is a term that refers to the devices used to suspend aircraft components during maintenance or repair. While this usage is not technically correct, it is widely accepted within the aviation industry.

2. Regional Differences

There are some regional differences in the way that “hanger” and “hangar” are used. For example, in British English, the term “hanger” is sometimes used to refer to a type of coat hook. In this case, “hangar” is not used at all.

3. Slang And Informal Usage

As with many words in the English language, “hanger” and “hangar” are sometimes used in slang or informal contexts in ways that do not follow standard usage rules. For example, someone might use the term “hanger” to refer to a person who is angry or irritable, even though this usage is not technically correct.

It is important to keep in mind that while these exceptions exist, they are not the norm. In most cases, it is best to follow the standard rules for using “hanger” and “hangar” to ensure clear and effective communication.

Practice Exercises

Now that we’ve covered the differences between hanger and hangar, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these two words in sentences. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and choose the correct word to complete each sentence.

Exercise 1:

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

Sentence	Answer
I need to buy a new __________ for my coat.	hanger
The airplane was parked in the __________.	hangar
She used a __________ to break into the car.	hanger
The pilot taxied the plane into the __________.	hangar
He hung his shirt on a __________ in the closet.	hanger
The mechanic worked on the engine in the __________.	hangar

Exercise 2:

Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.

1. She accidentally left her coat on the __________.
2. The airplane was stored in the __________ overnight.
3. He used a __________ to hang the picture on the wall.
4. The helicopter was parked in the __________.
5. She found a __________ on the floor of the closet.
6. The airplane was serviced in the __________.

Answers: 1. hanger, 2. hangar, 3. hanger, 4. hangar, 5. hanger, 6. hangar

By completing these practice exercises, you should have a better understanding of how to use hanger and hangar correctly in sentences. Remember to always double-check your usage to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between hanger and hangar is important for effective communication and writing. Here are the key takeaways from this article:

Hanger:

• Refers to a device used for hanging clothes or other items
• Can also refer to a person who hangs something, such as a picture or sign
• Is a common word in everyday language

Hangar:

• Refers to a large building used for storing or housing aircraft, spacecraft, or other vehicles
• Is a specialized term used in aviation and related industries
• Is often used in military contexts

While the difference between hanger and hangar may seem small, using the wrong word can lead to confusion or misunderstandings. As writers, it’s important to pay attention to the specific meanings and contexts of words in order to communicate effectively.

Continuing to learn about grammar and language use can help us become better writers and communicators. By expanding our vocabulary and understanding of language, we can express ourselves more clearly and effectively.