This archive report was first published on 23 September 2019.
Published on September 23, 2019, an article in The Standard sparked a discussion on the correct usage of the verb 'hang' and its past tense forms 'hung' and 'hanged'. The article highlighted the tragic story of a 14-year-old girl who hanged herself after being mocked by a female teacher at Kabianga Primary School in Konoin Constituency.
The incident led to a reader reaching out to express their concern about the use of the past tense form in the article's headline, which read 'Pupil, 14, who hang self after period...'. The reader suggested that it would be beneficial to remind readers when to use 'hung' or 'hanged' instead of 'hang', as the latter is not in the past tense form.
According to the article, the word 'hang' primarily means to suspend something from above without any support from below. However, when 'hang' takes on the noun form, it refers to a downward droop or bend. The article also explores the use of 'hang' in idiomatic expressions, such as 'hang a right' or 'hang on someone's every word.'
When it comes to the past tense forms 'hung' and 'hanged', the article emphasizes that while they are sometimes used interchangeably, 'hanged' is the correct term to use when referring to the act of taking life out of a human being, such as in the case of capital punishment. On the other hand, 'hung' can be used to describe a body remaining suspended in one place after being hanged.
Ultimately, the article aims to educate readers on the correct usage of the verb 'hang' and its past tense forms, highlighting the importance of precision in language to avoid confusion and miscommunication.
