Differences between hold on and move on
Hold on means to wait or pause for a short period of time, while move on means to continue or progress forward.
Meanings and Definitions: hold on vs move on
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.
Move on
- 1Change the subject or your job.
She MOVED ON to another company where the salary was considerably better.
- 2Make people move from a place.
The police MOVED the crowd ON because they were holding up the traffic.
Usage Examples: hold on, move on 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.
move on
Example
It's time to move on from this topic and discuss something else.
Example
She moves on quickly after a breakup.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on
hang on
To wait or pause for a short period of time.
Example
Just hang on for a second while I grab my keys.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Move on
To continue or move forward with an activity or plan.
Example
Let's proceed with the next item on the agenda.
To make progress or move forward in a situation or project.
Example
We need to advance our research to meet the deadline.
go ahead
To give permission or encouragement to continue with an action or plan.
Example
You have my approval to go ahead with the project proposal.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “move”
Differences in hold on vs move on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold on or move on?
Both phrases are commonly used in daily conversation, but hold on is used more frequently. It's often used when someone needs to pause a conversation or activity for a moment, while move on is used when someone wants to continue with a new topic or activity.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold on and move on
Hold on and move on are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, move on can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hold on and move on
The tone of hold on is usually patient or urgent, depending on the context. It can be used to ask someone to wait for a moment or to express urgency in a situation. On the other hand, move on has a more determined and confident tone, as it implies that someone is ready to progress forward.
