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Phrasal verbs "hand on" vs "hold on"

Differences between hand on and hold on

Hand on usually means to pass or give something to someone else, while hold on generally means to wait or pause for a moment.

Meanings and Definitions: hand on vs hold on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hand on

  • 1Give to someone else.

    I HANDED the job ON to a colleague.

  • 2Transmit knowledge to the next generation.

    The secrets have been HANDED ON from generation to generation.

Hold on

  • 1Wait.

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

  • 2To hold tightly.

    We HELD ON as the bus started to move.

Usage Examples: hand on, hold on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hand on

Example

She decided to hand on the responsibility to her assistant.

Example

He hands on the family business to his son.

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 Hand on

pass on

To give something to someone else, especially when it's their turn to use it or they need it.

Example

Can you pass on the salt, please?

give to

To transfer ownership or possession of something to someone else.

Example

She decided to give her old bike to her younger sister.

transfer to

To move something from one place or person to another.

Example

He needed to transfer the files to his new computer before returning the old one.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on

wait a moment

To pause or delay for a short period of time.

Example

Can you wait a moment while I finish this email?

hang on

To wait or pause for a moment, often used in informal situations.

Example

Hey, hang on a sec, I need to grab my keys.

stay put

To remain in one place or position, often used to indicate that someone should not move or leave.

Example

I'll be right back, just stay put until I return.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hand”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: hand on or hold on?

In daily conversation, people use hold on more often than hand on. This is because hold on is used in a variety of situations where we need to pause or wait, such as when we're on the phone or in a conversation. Hand on is less common and is mainly used when we're talking about passing something to someone else.

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

Hand on and hold on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

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

The tone of hand on and hold on can differ based on context. Hand on often carries a helpful or cooperative tone when related to passing something to someone else, while hold on typically has a patient or urgent tone, especially when referring to waiting for someone or something.

hand on & hold on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hold on

Synonyms

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