Differences between hold out and put out
Hold out means to resist or refuse something, while put out means to extinguish something or to inconvenience someone.
Meanings and Definitions: hold out vs put out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Put out
- 1Broadcast.
Several charities PUT OUT an appeal on TV for money for the victims of the flooding in Mozambique.
- 2Disturb or trouble someone.
Would it be PUTTING you OUT greatly if I asked to change to another day.
- 3Extinguish a cigarette, fire, etc..
He PUT OUT his cigarette before entering the building.
Usage Examples: hold out, put out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hold out
Example
They hold out hope that their missing cat will return.
Example
She holds out against the pressure to conform.
put out
Example
Please put out your cigarette before entering the building.
Example
She puts out the campfire before going to sleep.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold out
resist
To oppose or refuse something, often with determination or persistence.
Example
She decided to resist the temptation to eat junk food and stick to her healthy diet.
stand one's ground
To maintain one's position or opinion despite opposition or pressure.
Example
He stood his ground and refused to compromise on his principles, even when it was difficult.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put out
To cause trouble or difficulty for someone, often by requiring extra effort or time.
Example
I'm sorry to inconvenience you, but could you please pick me up from the airport tomorrow?
To put out a fire or flame, or to make something no longer burn or shine.
Example
He used a fire extinguisher to extinguish the flames and prevent further damage.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in hold out vs put out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold out or put out?
In daily conversation, people use put out more often than hold out. This is because put out is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning off a light or asking someone for a favor. Hold out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about resisting or refusing something. So, while both phrases are used, put out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold out and put out
Hold out and put 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 out and put out
The tone of hold out and put out can differ based on context. Hold out often carries a stubborn or determined tone when related to resisting or refusing something, while put out typically has a practical and sometimes apologetic tone, especially when referring to inconveniencing someone or extinguishing something.
hold out & put out: Synonyms and Antonyms
Hold out
Put out
Synonyms
- extinguish
- quench
- douse
- broadcast
- announce
- inconvenience
- trouble
- bother
- snuff out
- suppress
