English phrasal verbs with ‘hold’
with meanings and example sentences, plus scroll down to test your knowledge with a phrasal verb quiz.
Phrasal verbs can be tricky, but they are an essential part of mastering the English language. Today, we'll explore various phrasal verbs using the word ‘hold.’ By understanding these phrases and seeing them in context, you'll be able to practice using them when communicating in English .
1. Hold Back
Definition 1: To hesitate to act or speak.
Example: Sarah wanted to speak up in the meeting, but she held back because she was nervous.
Definition 2: To prevent or restrict the progress or development of someone or something.
Example: The manager's constant criticism held back the team's creativity.
2. Hold Off
Definition: To delay action.
Example: The company decided to hold off on launching the new product until the market conditions improved.
3. Hold Down
Definition 1: To prevent someone from moving by holding them firmly.
Example: The wrestler held down his opponent until the referee counted to three.
Definition 2: To succeed in keeping a job or position for a period of time.
Example: Despite the challenges, she managed to hold down her job for five years.
4. Hold On
Definition 1: To grasp or support something with one's hands.
Example: Hold on to the railing so you don't fall.
Definition 2: To wait, stop.
Example: Can you hold on for a moment? I need to grab my keys.
5. Hold Out On
Definition: To refuse to give help or information to someone.
Example: He’s been holding out on us about the details of the project.
6. Hold In
Definition: To suppress an expression of emotion.
Example: She tried to hold in her laughter during the serious lecture.
Quiz Time!
Test your understanding of the phrasal verbs with "hold." Choose the correct phrasal verb to complete each sentence:
I had to __________ my anger when I heard the unfair criticism.
If you __________ to that rope, you won't fall.
He __________ on signing the contract until he had all the details.
It's hard to __________ a job when you're constantly moving cities.
She wanted to share her opinion but decided to __________.
The rain __________ us __________ from starting the game on time.
The suspect __________ information from the police.
Can you __________ for a minute? I'll be right back.
I had to hold in my anger when I heard the unfair criticism.
If you hold on to that rope, you won't fall.
He held off on signing the contract until he had all the details.
It's hard to hold down a job when you're constantly moving cities.
She wanted to share her opinion but decided to hold back.
The rain held us back from starting the game on time.
The suspect held out on information from the police.
Can you hold on for a minute? I'll be right back.