The English language is rich with expressions and idioms that make conversations colorful and meaningful. One such versatile word is “hold.” Here are 20 expressions featuring “hold,” each with a brief explanation and an example sentence to help you grasp their usage quickly.
Expressions with “Hold”
1. Hold your horses
Meaning: Wait a moment; be patient.
Example: Hold your horses, I’m getting your book.
2. Hold the fort
Meaning: Take responsibility in someone’s absence.
Example: I’ll hold the fort while you’re away.
3. Hold water
Meaning: Remain sound, valid, or feasible.
Example: His argument doesn’t hold water at all.
4. Hold the line
Meaning: Maintain your position under pressure.
Example: Hold the line, reinforcements will come soon.
5. Hold sway
Meaning: Have great power or influence.
Example: He holds sway over the committee’s decisions.
6. Hold a grudge
Meaning: Maintain resentment; not forgive.
Example: She’s been holding a grudge for years.
7. Hold your tongue
Meaning: Refrain from speaking.
Example: Hold your tongue in such sensitive matters.
8. Hold the phone
Meaning: Wait; listen to this important information.
Example: Hold the phone, did he really say that?
9. Hold court
Meaning: Attract and hold the attention of a group.
Example: She held court at the dinner party.
10. Hold out
Meaning: Resist; not give in.
Example: He held out against all the accusations.
11. Hold up
Meaning: Delay; cause to be late.
Example: An accident held up traffic for hours.
12. Hold onto your hat
Meaning: Prepare for something surprising or exciting.
Example: Hold onto your hat, this will amaze you!
13. No holds barred
Meaning: Without restrictions; free from limitations.
Example: It was a debate with no holds barred.
14. Hold the bag
Meaning: Be left to face the consequences.
Example: He left suddenly, and I was holding the bag.
15. Hold your fire
Meaning: Stop or delay criticizing someone.
Example: Hold your fire until you hear the story.
16. Get hold of
Meaning: Obtain; gain possession of.
Example: I need to get hold of a new passport.
17. Hold one’s own
Meaning: Manage well despite difficulties.
Example: She can hold her own in any argument.
18. Hold it against someone
Meaning: Continue to blame someone for something.
Example: I won’t hold it against you this time.
19. Hold forth
Meaning: Speak at length in a pompous manner.
Example: He held forth on the flaws in their plan.
20. Hold back
Meaning: Hesitate to act or speak.
Example: Don’t hold back; express your true feelings.
