Differences between hold on and hold out
Hold on usually means to wait or pause for a moment, whereas hold out generally means to resist or endure something, often with the hope of a positive outcome.
Meanings and Definitions: hold on vs hold out
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 out
- 1Resist.
When the enemy attacked, they HELD OUT for six weeks.
- 2Hold in front of you.
I HELD OUT my hand when she walked in.
Usage Examples: hold on, hold out 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 out
Example
They hold out hope that their missing cat will return.
Example
She holds out against the pressure to conform.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on
hang on
To wait or pause for a moment, often used on the phone.
Example
I'll be right back, hang on for a second.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold out
To persist or continue despite difficulties or obstacles.
Example
She had to persevere through many setbacks before finally achieving her goal.
hang tough
To remain strong and resilient in the face of adversity.
Example
We need to hang tough and keep working hard to overcome this challenge.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in hold on vs hold out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold on or hold out?
In daily conversation, people use hold on more often than hold out. This is because hold on is used in many situations where we need to pause or wait for a moment, such as on the phone or when someone is looking for something. Hold out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about resisting or enduring something, like a difficult situation. So, while both phrases are used, hold on is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold on and hold out
Hold on and hold out 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 out
The tone of hold on and hold out can differ based on context. Hold on often carries a patient or reassuring tone when asking someone to wait or pause, while hold out typically has a determined or hopeful tone, especially when referring to enduring a difficult situation or waiting for a positive outcome.
hold on & hold out: Synonyms and Antonyms
Hold on
Antonyms
- release
- surrender
- abandon
- quit
- relinquish
- let go
- give up
