What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
holds
Example
He holds the baby gently in his arms. [holds: verb]
Example
The shelf holds all of my books. [holds: verb]
Example
This material holds up well under extreme temperatures. [holds: verb]
carry
Example
Can you help me carry these groceries to the car? [carry: verb]
Example
She carries her backpack on her shoulders every day. [carries: verb]
Example
The water bottle can carry up to 500 ml of liquid. [carry: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carry is more commonly used than holds in everyday language. Carry is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while holds is less common and often used in specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between holds and carry?
Both holds and carry can be used in formal and informal contexts, but holds may be considered slightly more formal due to its less frequent use in everyday language.