What does “Hold fire” mean?
"Hold fire" means to wait or pause before taking action.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Let's hold fire on making a decision until we have more information.
Example
The team decided to hold fire on launching the new product until after the holidays.
Example
I think it's best to hold fire on responding to that email until we have a chance to discuss it in person
Is “Hold fire” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Hold fire” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Hold fire” effectively in context?
You can use "Hold fire" to suggest waiting or pausing before making a decision or taking action. It implies the need for caution and careful consideration. Here are three distinct situations where you can use the phrase effectively:
- 1Decision Making
Let's hold fire on making a decision until we have more information.
- 2Product Launch
The team decided to hold fire on launching the new product until after the holidays.
- 3Email Response
I think it's best to hold fire on responding to that email until we have a chance to discuss it in person.
Similar phrases to “Hold fire”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Hold fire” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Hold fire" can be traced back to military usage. In warfare, soldiers are often commanded to 'hold fire' as an order to stop shooting or to pause before taking further action. Over time, the phrase has been adopted in everyday language to mean waiting or pausing before making a decision or taking action.
Is “Hold fire” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Hold fire" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used in professional settings, such as business meetings or discussions, to suggest taking a pause or waiting before making a decision or taking action.
What tone does “Hold fire” have?
"Hold fire" conveys a tone of caution and prudence. It suggests the importance of carefully considering all factors before proceeding. The phrase is often used to encourage thoughtful decision-making and to avoid hasty actions.
Can “Hold fire” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Hold fire" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as work-related discussions, personal conversations, or even in written correspondence. It is appropriate to use in both casual and professional situations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
While "Hold fire" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning, it can also be used alone to imply the idea of waiting or pausing. For example, if someone suggests taking immediate action, you can simply respond with '"Hold fire"' to indicate the need to wait or pause.
