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Phrasal verbs "hold off" vs "hold out on"

Differences between hold off and hold out on

Hold off means to delay or postpone something, while hold out on means to withhold or keep something secret or hidden from someone.

Meanings and Definitions: hold off vs hold out on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

Hold out on

  • 1Not pay someone or give them information.

    He's been HOLDING OUT ON me for weeks and I really need the money.

Usage Examples: hold off, hold out on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

hold out on

Example

She always holds out on me when it comes to sharing her recipes.

Example

He holds out on his friends when they ask for advice.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold off

postpone

To delay or reschedule an event or task to a later time or date.

Example

We need to postpone the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.

put on hold

To temporarily suspend or delay a project or plan.

Example

The construction project was put on hold due to budget constraints.

wait it out

To endure or wait patiently for a difficult or challenging situation to pass.

Example

We just need to wait it out until the storm passes and then we can resume our outdoor activities.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold out on

keep under wraps

To keep something secret or hidden from others.

Example

The company is keeping the new product under wraps until the official launch date.

keep in the dark

To intentionally withhold information or keep someone uninformed about a situation.

Example

She felt frustrated that her boss kept her in the dark about the company's plans for expansion.

keep mum

To remain silent or not reveal information about something.

Example

He decided to keep mum about his promotion until the official announcement was made.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in hold off vs hold out on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hold off or hold out on?

In daily conversation, people use hold off more often than hold out on. This is because hold off is used for more common situations such as delaying a meeting or postponing a task. Hold out on is less common and usually used in specific contexts such as withholding information or keeping a secret. So, while both phrases are used, hold off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold off and hold out on

Hold off and hold out 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 off and hold out on

The tone of hold off and hold out on can differ based on context. Hold off often carries a neutral or practical tone when related to delaying or postponing something, while hold out on typically has a negative or secretive tone, especially when referring to withholding information or resources.

hold off & hold out on: Synonyms and Antonyms

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