Differences between hold on and hold on to
Hold on usually means to wait or pause for a short time, whereas hold on to generally means to keep or retain something.
Meanings and Definitions: hold on vs hold on to
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hold on
- 1Wait.
Could you HOLD ON for a minute; she'll be free in a moment.
- 2To hold tightly.
We HELD ON as the bus started to move.
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 on, hold on to in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hold on
Example
Please hold on while I find the document you need.
Example
She holds on to the railing when going down the stairs.
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 on
hang on
To ask someone to wait or pause for a short time.
Example
I need to finish this email first, hang on for a minute.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on to
To retain or maintain possession of something.
Example
I want to keep this book after I finish reading it.
To keep or hold onto something, especially a skill or knowledge.
Example
It's important to retain information from your studies for future use.
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 on vs hold on to: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold on or hold on to?
In daily conversation, people use hold on more often than hold on to. This is because hold on is used frequently in everyday situations such as asking someone to wait on the phone or to pause a conversation. Hold on to is less common but still used in conversations when referring to keeping something.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold on and hold on to
Hold on 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 on and hold on to
The tone of hold on and hold on to can differ based on context. Hold on often carries a sense of urgency or impatience when asking someone to wait, while hold on to typically has a protective or possessive tone, especially when referring to keeping something.
