Differences between hold off and hold over
Hold off means to delay or postpone something, while hold over means to continue or extend something beyond its original time.
Meanings and Definitions: hold off vs hold over
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 over
- 1Delay.
The meeting has been HELD OVER till Friday.
- 2To continue something for longer than planned.
It has been so successful that they have HELD it OVER for another fortnight.
Usage Examples: hold off, hold over 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 over
Example
They decided to hold over the event due to bad weather.
Example
She holds over the meeting until everyone arrives.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold off
To delay or reschedule an event or activity to a later time or date.
Example
We need to postpone the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold over
To prolong or lengthen the duration of an event or activity.
Example
The theater decided to extend the play's run for another week due to popular demand.
To make something last longer than expected or planned.
Example
The negotiations were prolonged due to disagreements between the parties involved.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Differences in hold off vs hold over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold off or hold over?
Both hold off and hold over are commonly used in everyday conversation, but hold over is more frequently used in specific contexts such as entertainment or business.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold off and hold over
Both hold off and hold over are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. However, hold over can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, while hold off is generally not used in such situations.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hold off and hold over
The tone of hold off and hold over can differ based on context. Hold off often carries a sense of urgency or caution when referring to delaying something, while hold over typically has a positive and enthusiastic tone, especially when referring to extending an event or activity.
