Phrasal verb
hold out
Meanings
to refuse to accept an offer or to give in; to keep resisting
to survive or continue to function for a period of time, especially with limited supplies or strength
to extend something toward someone, especially a hand or an object
Definition
To hold out means to refuse to agree or give in, usually while waiting for something better.
When you hold out, you continue to resist pressure to accept an offer or to stop doing something. People often hold out because they want better terms, more information, or more time. It can also mean to survive or last for a period of time with limited resources.
Examples
- I decided to hold out for a later flight that fit my schedule.
- She will hold out until she gets a clear answer from the team.
- They tried to hold out through the storm with only candles and bottled water.
- He held out his hand to help his friend step over the puddle.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "hold out" (resist or last) with "hold on" (wait or keep holding 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.