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Phrasal verbs "hold down" vs "hold on"

Differences between hold down and hold on

Hold down usually means to keep something under control or to keep a job, while hold on generally means to wait or to grasp something tightly.

Meanings and Definitions: hold down vs hold on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hold down

  • 1Keep a job.

    He's so unreliable that he can never HOLD DOWN a job for more than a couple of months.

  • 2Stop someone or something from moving.

    It took four of us to HOLD him DOWN and stop the fight.

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: hold down, hold on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hold down

Example

She is able to hold down a full-time job while studying.

Example

He holds down two part-time jobs to support his family.

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 Hold down

keep under control

To manage or regulate something to prevent it from getting out of hand.

Example

It's important to keep your emotions under control during a job interview to make a good impression.

maintain a grip on

To keep a firm hold on something or someone.

Example

She had to maintain a grip on the rope to avoid falling off the cliff.

retain one's position

To keep one's job or status in a company or organization.

Example

He worked hard to retain his position as the head of the marketing department.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on

wait a moment

To ask someone to pause or stop what they are doing for a short time.

Example

Can you wait a moment while I grab my phone?

hang in there

To encourage someone to persevere or endure through a difficult situation.

Example

I know it's tough, but hang in there and things will get better.

grasp tightly

To hold onto something firmly or tightly.

Example

She had to grasp tightly onto the railing to avoid slipping on the wet stairs.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hold”

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: hold down or hold on?

In daily conversation, people use hold on more often than hold down. This is because hold on is used in various situations such as asking someone to wait, holding onto something tightly, or asking someone to continue speaking. Hold down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about keeping a job or controlling something. So, while both phrases are used, hold on is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Hold down 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 hold down and hold on

The tone of hold down and hold on can differ based on context. Hold down often carries a serious or authoritative tone when related to controlling a situation or keeping a job, while hold on typically has a friendly and encouraging tone, especially when referring to waiting or holding onto something.

hold down & hold on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hold on

Synonyms

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