Differences between hold in and hold off
Hold in means to restrain or control one's emotions or actions, while hold off means to delay or postpone something.
Meanings and Definitions: hold in vs hold off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hold in
- 1To control or restrain something, especially one's emotions or physical appearance.
I was trying desperately to hold my tummy in.
- 2To suppress or restrain.
It can be bad for you to hold in anger.
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: hold in, hold off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hold in
Example
She tries to hold in her laughter during the meeting.
Example
He holds in his tears when watching a sad movie.
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 Hold in
bite one's tongue
To refrain from speaking or expressing one's thoughts or feelings.
Example
She had to bite her tongue during the argument to avoid making things worse.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold off
To delay or reschedule an event or task to a later time.
Example
We need to postpone the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.
To hold back or defer an action or process.
Example
The flight was delayed due to bad weather conditions.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
- cross off
- polish off
- carry off
- toss off
- flog off
Differences in hold in vs hold off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold in or hold off?
In daily conversation, people use hold off more often than hold in. This is because hold off is used for more common situations such as delaying a meeting or postponing a task. Hold in is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about controlling our emotions or behavior. So, while both phrases are used, hold off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold in and hold off
Hold in and hold off 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 in and hold off
The tone of hold in and hold off can differ based on context. Hold in often carries a serious or emotional tone when related to controlling oneself, while hold off typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to delaying or postponing something.
