Phrasal verb
hold on
Meanings
to wait for a short time; to pause
to keep a firm grip on something; not let go
to continue and not give up in a difficult situation
Definition
To hold on means to wait for a short time.
To hold on is often used to ask someone to wait briefly, especially during a conversation or phone call. It can also mean to keep something firmly in your hand, or to continue despite difficulties. The exact meaning depends on the situation and what follows in the sentence.
Examples
- Hold on a second—I’ll grab my keys.
- Could you hold on while I check the schedule?
- He told me to hold on because the meeting was about to start.
- She held on to the rail as the bus turned sharply.
- They held on through a tough season and finally improved.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse “hold on” (wait) with “hold on to” (keep a firm grip or keep possession of something).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.