Differences between hold down and pin down
Hold down generally means to keep something or someone in place, while pin down usually means to determine or identify something precisely.
Meanings and Definitions: hold down vs pin down
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.
Pin down
- 1Get a fixed idea, opinion, etc, from someone..
I've asked him to set a date, but he's a hard man to PIN DOWN and won't give a definite answer.
- 2Discover exact details about something.
The government can't PIN DOWN where the leak came from.
Usage Examples: hold down, pin down 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.
pin down
Example
It's difficult to pin down the exact cause of the problem.
Example
She pins down the details of the project before starting.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold down
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pin down
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in hold down vs pin down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold down or pin down?
In daily conversation, hold down is more common than pin down. This is because hold down is used for more everyday tasks and routines such as holding down a job or holding down a baby. Pin down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about identifying something precisely. So, while both phrases are used, hold down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold down and pin down
Hold down and pin down 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 pin down
The tone of hold down and pin down can differ based on context. Hold down often carries a practical or responsible tone when related to keeping something or someone in place, while pin down typically has an investigative and precise tone, especially when referring to identifying or determining something.
