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Phrasal verbs "hold on" vs "work on"

Differences between hold on and work on

Hold on usually means to wait or pause for a moment, whereas work on generally means to continue doing something in order to improve it or complete it.

Meanings and Definitions: hold on vs work 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.

Work on

  • 1Improve or develop.

    Scientists are WORKING ON genetically modified crops and foods.

Usage Examples: hold on, work 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.

work on

Example

She needs to work on her presentation skills.

Example

He works on his painting every day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold on

wait a moment

To pause or delay an action or conversation for a short period of time.

Example

Can you wait a moment while I grab my keys?

hang on

To wait or pause for a short period of time.

Example

Just hang on a second, I need to finish this email.

stay put

To remain in one place or position and not move.

Example

I'll be right back, stay put until I return.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work on

improve upon

To make something better or enhance its quality.

Example

She's always looking for ways to improve upon her cooking skills.

continue with

To keep doing something that was started previously.

Example

We need to continue with the project and finish it by the deadline.

put effort into

To invest time and energy in order to achieve a goal or improve something.

Example

He needs to put more effort into his studies if he wants to pass the exam.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in hold on vs work on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hold on or work on?

In daily conversation, people use hold on more often than work on. 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. Work on is used less frequently and is mainly used when discussing tasks or projects that require improvement or completion. So, while both phrases are used, hold on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold on and work on

Hold on and work 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 on and work on

The tone of hold on and work on can differ based on context. Hold on often carries a polite or urgent tone when related to waiting or pausing, while work on typically has a determined and focused tone, especially when referring to improving or completing a task or project.

hold on & work on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Hold on

Synonyms

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