Phrasal verbs "draw on" vs "hold on"

Differences between draw on and hold on

Draw on means to use something as a source of inspiration or information, while hold on means to wait or pause for a moment.

Meanings and Definitions: draw on vs hold on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Draw on

• 1. Pass slowly ( time ).

  As the lesson DREW ON, the students started to get bored.

• 2. Inhale smoke from a cigarette, cigar, etc.

  He DREW ON his cigarette and coughed.

Hold on

• 1. Wait.

  Could you HOLD ON for a minute; she'll be free in a moment.

• 2. To hold tightly.

  We HELD ON as the bus started to move.

Usage Examples: draw on, hold on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

draw on

Example

As the meeting draws on, people start to lose focus.

Example

The lecture draws on and the students become restless.

hold on

Example

Please hold on while I find the document you need.

Example

She holds on to the railing when going down the stairs.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Draw on

tap into

To access or utilize a resource or skill.

Example

She decided to tap into her creativity and paint a mural on the wall.

use as a reference

To consult or refer to something for guidance or information.

Example

He likes to use historical events as a reference when writing his novels.

derive from

To originate or come from a particular source or inspiration.

Example

Her love for cooking derives from her grandmother's recipes and techniques.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on

wait a moment

To pause or delay briefly.

Example

Can you wait a moment while I finish this email?

hang on

To wait or pause for a short time.

Example

I need to hang on for a few minutes until my friend arrives.

stay put

To remain in one place or position.

Example

Please stay put until the doctor comes to see you.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “draw”

• draw down
• draw back
• draw even
• draw in
• draw into

Phrasal Verbs with “hold”

• hold down
• hold in
• hold off
• hold on to
• hold with

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

• hit on
• fix on
• prey on
• stomp on
• cut back on

Differences in draw on vs hold on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: draw on or hold on?

In daily conversation, people use hold on more often than draw on. This is because hold on is used frequently in situations where someone needs to wait or pause, such as during a phone call or when someone needs to finish a task. Draw on is not used as much, but it is still a common phrase that can be used in creative contexts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of draw on and hold on

Draw on and hold on are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, hold on can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, whereas draw on is less likely to be used in these situations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of draw on and hold on

The tone of draw on and hold on can differ based on context. Draw on often carries a creative or reflective tone when related to using inspiration or knowledge, while hold on typically has a practical and urgent tone, especially when referring to waiting or pausing.

draw on & hold on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Draw on

Synonyms

• continue
• proceed
• last
• extend
• persist
• endure
• go on

Antonyms

• begin
• start
• commence
• initiate
• launch
• introduce

Hold on

Synonyms

• wait
• pause
• grip
• grasp
• cling
• adhere
• hang on
• cling to

Antonyms

• release
• surrender
• abandon
• quit
• relinquish
• let go
• give up