What are the definitions of “hold over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Delay.
The meeting has been HELD OVER till Friday.
- 2To continue something for longer than planned.
It has been so successful that they have HELD it OVER for another fortnight.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hold over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hold over is to delay something or continue something for longer than planned. It can be used to describe events, meetings, or activities that are postponed or extended.
What are the different verb forms of “hold over”?
| Root Verb | hold over |
| Third Person Singular Present | holds over |
| Present Participle | holding over |
| Simple Past | held over |
| Past Participle | held over |
Example
They decided to hold over the event due to bad weather.
Example
She holds over the meeting until everyone arrives.
Example
The theater is holding over the popular play for another week.
Example
The conference was held over to the next day because of technical issues.
Example
The decision has been held over until further notice.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hold over”?
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 over” 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
The manager held over the meeting until next week.
Example
They held the concert over due to the rain.
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 over” 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
The manager held over the meeting until next week.
Example
They held the concert over due to the rain.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hold over”?
Good things to know
Does “hold over” have an informal or formal tone?
Hold over 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 like business meetings or official communications.
