keep someone dangling

keep (one) dangling

To maintain some form of relationship with someone without revealing one's true feelings or intentions; to keep someone in an uncertain position. If you don't want to marry him, then you have to tell him that—you can't keep him dangling any longer! A: "I'm never going to get a promotion, am I?" B: "With the way the boss keeps you dangling, I doubt it."

See also: dangling, keep

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

keep someone dangling

keep someone, especially a would-be suitor, in an uncertain position.

See also: dangling, keep, someone

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017