Differences between fend off and hold off
Fend off and hold off are both phrasal verbs that mean to prevent or resist something, but they differ in their usage. Fend off is used when we want to protect ourselves from something harmful or unwanted, while hold off is used when we want to delay or postpone something.
Meanings and Definitions: fend off vs hold off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Fend off
- 1Resist something successfully.
He managed to FEND OFF the criticism in the press.
- 2Push an attacker away.
She FENDED OFF the dog when it attacked her.
Hold off
- 1When bad weather doesn't appear.
The rain HELD OFF until we'd got back home.
- 2Stop someone from attacking or beating you.
Chelsea couldn't HOLD their opponents OFF and lost the game.
Usage Examples: fend off, hold off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
fend off
Example
He tried to fend off the angry crowd.
Example
She fends off the unwanted attention with a smile.
hold off
Example
We need to hold off on the project until we get more funding.
Example
She holds off on making a decision until she has all the information.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fend off
To drive back or push away an attack or an attacker.
Example
The army was able to repel the enemy's invasion and protect the city.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold off
To delay or reschedule something to a later time or date.
Example
We need to postpone the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.
To delay or hold back making a decision or taking action.
Example
The board decided to defer the vote on the new policy until they had more information.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “fend”
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Differences in fend off vs hold off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: fend off or hold off?
Both fend off and hold off are commonly used in spoken and written English, but fend off is more frequently used than hold off. This is because fend off is used in a wider range of contexts, such as sports, self-defense, and dealing with unwanted advances.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fend off and hold off
Hold off is slightly more formal than fend off. It is often used in business or academic contexts when discussing delays or postponements. However, both phrases are generally considered informal and can be used in casual conversations.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fend off and hold off
The tone of fend off and hold off can differ based on context. Fend off often carries a defensive or protective tone, while hold off typically has a more neutral or even positive tone, especially when referring to delaying something for a good reason.
