What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
having
Example
I am having a great time at the party. [having: present participle]
Example
She is having a cup of coffee in the morning. [having: gerund]
Example
He is having a car that he bought last year. [having: present participle]
holding
Example
She is holding a book in her hand. [holding: present participle]
Example
The company is holding a meeting next week. [holding: present participle]
Example
He is holding onto his childhood memories. [holding: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Having is more commonly used in everyday language, while holding is more often used in specific contexts, such as business or legal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between having and holding?
Holding is generally more formal than having, and is often used in professional or legal contexts.
