What are the definitions of “hold out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hold out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hold out is to resist or endure a difficult situation. It often refers to someone or something that continues to function or remain strong despite challenges or obstacles.
What are the different verb forms of “hold out”?
| Root Verb | hold out |
| Third Person Singular Present | holds out |
| Present Participle | holding out |
| Simple Past | held out |
| Past Participle | held out |
Example
They hold out hope that their missing cat will return.
Example
She holds out against the pressure to conform.
Example
He is holding out for a better job offer.
Example
The soldiers held out against the enemy attack.
Example
The supplies held out until help arrived.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hold out”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“hold out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She held out her hand to help him up.
Example
He held out the gift to her.
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 out” 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 out her hand to help him up.
Example
He held out the gift to her.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hold out”?
Good things to know
Does “hold out” have an informal or formal tone?
Hold out 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 situations, depending on the specific context.
