Differences between hold in and hold on to
Hold in means to restrain or control one's emotions or physical actions, while hold on to means to keep something in one's possession or to maintain a grip on something.
Meanings and Definitions: hold in vs hold on to
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 on to
- 1Hold tightly.
I HELD ON TO my luggage while I was waiting fr the taxi so that it didn't get stolen.
Usage Examples: hold in, hold on to 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 on to
Example
Please hold on to the railing while going down the stairs.
Example
She holds on to her purse tightly in crowded places.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold in
bite one's tongue
To refrain from speaking or expressing one's thoughts or feelings.
Example
He had to bite his tongue during the argument to avoid escalating the situation further.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on to
To maintain ownership or control over something.
Example
She wanted to keep possession of the family heirloom despite financial difficulties.
hang onto
To keep or retain something, usually valuable or important.
Example
He decided to hang onto the old car since it held sentimental value for him.
To keep or hold onto something, usually knowledge or skills.
Example
She was able to retain the information from the lecture by taking detailed notes.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “on to”
Differences in hold in vs hold on to: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold in or hold on to?
In daily conversation, people use hold on to more often than hold in. This is because hold on to is used for more practical situations such as keeping a job or holding onto a valuable item. Hold in is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about controlling emotions or physical actions. So, while both phrases are used, hold on to is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold in and hold on to
Hold in and hold on to 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 on to
The tone of hold in and hold on to can differ based on context. Hold in often carries a serious or urgent tone when related to controlling emotions or physical actions, while hold on to typically has a practical and determined tone, especially when referring to keeping possession of something valuable.
