What are the definitions of “hold forth”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1State your opinions about something, especially when talking for a long time and boringly.
The manager HELD FORTH on the topic for about twenty minutes.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hold forth”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hold forth is to express one's opinions or ideas about a topic, often in a lengthy and potentially boring manner. It usually implies that the speaker is talking for an extended period, possibly without considering the interest or engagement of the listeners.
What are the different verb forms of “hold forth”?
| Root Verb | hold forth |
| Third Person Singular Present | holds forth |
| Present Participle | holding forth |
| Simple Past | held forth |
| Past Participle | held forth |
Example
The professor held forth on the importance of studying history.
Example
He holds forth about politics every time we meet.
Example
She is holding forth on her favorite subject, leaving everyone else bored.
Example
During the meeting, the boss held forth on the company's future plans.
Example
The guest speaker held forth on the topic for over an hour.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hold forth”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“hold forth” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She held forth on the importance of environmental conservation.
Example
He held forth about his travel experiences.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“hold forth” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She held forth on the importance of environmental conservation.
Example
He held forth about his travel experiences.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hold forth”?
To dominate a conversation by speaking at length, often without considering the interest or engagement of the listeners.
Example
At the party, he held forth in every conversation, leaving little room for others to speak.
Good things to know
Does “hold forth” have an informal or formal tone?
Hold forth is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings such as academic discussions, business meetings, or speeches.
